IMPACT OF INCREASED USAGE OF ELECTRONIC GADGETS ON VISION, SLEEP, HEARING AND EMOTIONAL ASPECTS DURING COVID-19 ERA

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Electronic gadgets have become an inseparable part of our life. During the COVID-19 era there has been a tremendous increase in the use of these electronic gadgets for learning and communication. These gadgets are also known to cause harmful effects to our health. Hence there is a need to promote cautious and informed use of these gadgets. AIMS AND OBJECTIVES: To study the impact of increased usage of electronic gadgets on vision, sleep, hearing and emotional aspects during COVID-19 era. Materials and Methods: A pre-validated questionnaire was to send to 300 medical students across Kerala and the received responses were statistically analyzed. RESULT: A tremendous increase in the usage of the electronical gadgets such as smart phones, tablets, television, laptops and desktops was observed. The study showed an increase in the use of headphones along with laptops. Increased usage of tablets was seen to affect sleep quality. CONCLUSION: During COVID-19 era the usage of smart phones, tablets, television, laptops and desktops has increased and it was also associated with negative impact on health of medical students in Kerala