Computer Vision Syndrome Among College Students: An Emerging Health Issue of Current Era

Abstract

Background: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of computer vision syndrome (CVS) and its associated factors among undergraduate college students.

Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted from April 2022 to October 2022 using a web-based survey. A sample of 415 undergraduate college students was included through convenience sampling. Data collection utilized a self-structured questionnaire for socio-demographic information and a validated questionnaire (CVS-Q). Data entry and analysis were performed using SPSS version 23. Chi-square test and logistic regression were employed to identify associations and predictors, respectively, with statistical significance set at p ≤ 0.05.

Results: The mean age of the participants was 21.3 ± 2.8 years. Among 415 participants, the prevalence of CVS was 60.9%, with headache being the most commonly reported symptom (73.2%). Female gender (p < 0.001), presence of refractive error (p < 0.001), use of video display terminal (VDT) devices (p = 0.007), daily average screen time (p = 0.006), and lighting conditions while using VDT devices (p = 0.05) were significantly associated with CVS.

Conclusion: A high frequency of computer vision syndrome was observed among undergraduate college students. Female gender, refractive error, type of VDT used, average screen time, and lighting conditions during VDT device use were significantly associated with CVS.