COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME: EPIDEMIC AMONG MEDICAL STUDENTS IN BULGARIA

Abstract

PURPOSE: The aim of оur research is to assess the impact of monitor use and computer learning process on the visual comfort and ocular health of students from Medical Universities in Bulgaria. METHODS: 219 students participated in the study. They were interviewed anonymously in January 2023, through an online survey. Questions concern students’ ocular and visual comfort during the proсess of self-preparation for exams during session. RESULTS: Тhe survey results indicate that digital learning increases screen time at potentially dangerous for eye health levels. The most common complaints among students are eye fatigue (83.1%), tearing (58.9%), dry eyes (58.4%), blurred vision (40.2%), photophobia (37.4%), and itchiness (34.7%). Results show that 32% of respondents spent 1-2 hours working on a computer without a break; 57.1% reported that they work for more than 2 hours, and only 3.7% spent less than 20 min before taking a break. CONCLUSIONS: It was noted that eye fatigue and visual discomfort among medical students were negatively affected by the monitor learning during the session. Increased screen time causes digital eye strain, which impairs life quality and is a socially significant phenomenon.