Prolonged Computer Use Research Articles

Intelligent standalone eye blinking monitoring system for computer users

Purpose: Working on computers for long hours has become a regular task for millions of people around the world. This has led to the increase of eye and vision issues related to prolonged computer use, known as computer vision syndrome (CVS). A main contributor to CVS caused by dry eyes is the reduction of blinking rates. In this pilot study, an intelligent, standalone eye blinking monitoring system to promote healthier blinking behaviors for computer users was developed using components that are affordable and easily available in the market. Methods: The developed eye blinking monitoring system used a camera to track blinking rates and operated audible, visual and tactile alarm modes to induce blinks. The hypothesis in this study is that the developed eye blinking monitoring system would increase eye blinks for a computer user. To test this hypothesis, the developed system was evaluated on 20 subjects. Results: The eye blinking monitoring system detected blinks with high accuracy (95.9%). The observed spontaneous eye blinking rate was 43.1 ± 14.7 blinks/min (mean ± standard deviation). Eye blinking rates significantly decreased when the subjects were watching movie trailers (25.2 ± 11.9 blinks/min; Wilcoxon signed rank test; p<0.001) and reading articles (24.2 ± 12.1 blinks/min; p<0.001) on a computer. The blinking monitoring system with the alarm function turned on showed an increase in blinking rates (28.2 ± 12.1 blinks/min) compared to blinking rates without the alarm function (25.2 ± 11.9 blinks/min; p=0.09; Cohen’s effect size d=0.25) when the subjects were watching movie trailers. Conclusions: The developed blinking monitoring system was able to detect blinking with high accuracy and induce blinking with a personalized alarm function. Further work is needed to refine the study design and evaluate the clinical impact of the system. This work is an advancement towards the development of a profound technological solution for preventing CVS.

Realization of Occupational Health and Safety Training Modules and Topics for Musculoskeletal Disorders and Psychosocial Risks in the IT Sector

Musculoskeletal Disorders and psychosocial risks represent two of the most significant health challenges in modern workplaces, with wide-ranging implications for employee well-being and organizational productivity. The primary aim of this article is to explore the design of Occupational Health and Safety training modules tailored to address the dual challenges of Musculoskeletal Disorders and psychosocial risks within the IT sector. By addressing hazards proactively, OHS helps organizations reduce the risk of workplace incidents, which can result in significant financial and reputational costs. Moreover, ensuring employee safety and well-being contributes to higher morale, improved productivity, and a positive organizational culture. Our methodology in realization of occupational health and safety training modules and topics for musculoskeletal disorders and psychosocial risks in the it sectors consisted in calling on experts because safety domain of research is by excellence a domain based on expertise. The safety expert is the real cornerstone of safety and their expertise is transformed into lessons learned that are used for training and improvement of existing safety attitudes. Regarding the relevance of the results, we consider that the structure and content of the training module address key challenges faced by IT professionals in offices, particularly those linked to sedentary work and prolonged computer use. The development of this module represents a significant step toward addressing the occupational health and safety needs of IT professionals. By focusing on education, prevention, and compliance, it not only mitigates risks but also promotes a healthier, safer, and more engaged workforce. Future efforts could expand on this module by integrating digital tools, gamified training methods, or regular feedback loops to ensure the training remains effective and relevant.

Prevalence and Associated Risk Factors of Myopia in Computer Vision Syndrome Among Undergraduate Students in Pakistan

Background: Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) is prevalent among students due to extensive digital screen use, leading to various ocular and musculoskeletal symptoms.Objective: To assess the prevalence and associated risk factors of CVS among undergraduate students in Pakistan.Methods: A cross-sectional analytical study was conducted among 422 undergraduate students at the University of Lahore from March to April 2020. Participants were selected using non-probability convenient sampling. Data were collected through a structured, web-based questionnaire covering demographics, computer usage patterns, and CVS symptoms. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, employing chi-square tests and logistic regression to identify significant associations, with p-values <0.05 considered significant. Ethical approval was obtained, and the study adhered to the Declaration of Helsinki.Results: CVS prevalence was 70.4% among participants, with higher rates in females (45.6%) compared to males (36%) (p=0.03). Prolonged computer use (>3 hours/day) was significantly associated with CVS (p=0.04). Regular breaks every 30 minutes reduced CVS prevalence significantly (p=0.01).Conclusion: CVS is highly prevalent among undergraduate students, especially among females and those with prolonged computer use. Interventions focusing on ergonomic practices and regular breaks are recommended.

Corneal hypersensitivity to cold stimuli in symptomatic computer users.

Prolonged computer use may result in repeated stimulation of the ocular surface due to ocular dryness, potentially leading to alterations in its sensitivity. This study aimed to evaluate the relationship between ocular symptoms and corneal sensitivity to cold and mechanical stimuli in computer users. Fifty-two young (31 ± 6 years), frequent computer users, including symptomatic and asymptomatic users, participated in this study. Mechanical and cold sensation thresholds were determined at the central cornea of one randomly selected eye of each participant using the UNSW Liquid Jet Aesthesiometer. Ocular surface symptoms and digital eye strain were assessed using the Ocular Surface Disease Index, Ocular Comfort Index, Instant Ocular Symptom Survey, and Computer Vision Syndrome Questionnaire (CVS-Q). Associations between central corneal sensation thresholds and demographic variables, patterns of digital device use, and symptom scores were analyzed using Pearson (r) or Spearman (ρ) correlations and linear regression models. Age (ρ = 0.24), CVS-Q score (ρ = -0.33), CVS-Q dry eye score (ρ = -0.28), and mechanical sensation threshold (ρ = 0.63) were significantly associated with cold sensation threshold (p≤0.04). Conversely, there were no significant relationships with Ocular Surface Disease Index, Ocular Comfort Index, or Instant Ocular Symptom Survey or with other demographic variables (p≥0.34). In multiple linear regression models, age and mechanical sensation threshold were significant predictors of cold sensitivity (p=0.04 and p<0.001, respectively) (adjusted R2 = 0.459). There were no significant correlations between mechanical sensitivity and symptom scores (p≥0.09). Symptoms of digital eye strain, particularly those related to dry eye, were associated with higher corneal cold sensitivity. Corneal hypersensitivity to cold stimuli as a marker of ocular discomfort during computer use requires further investigation.

The Relationship Between Knowledge and Computer Vision Syndrome Prevention Behavior in Computer User Employees at Setco Group Pekanbaru

Background: Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) refers to a group of eye and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer use. The prevalence of CVS among office workers varies but is notably high. Studies indicate that the prevalence of CVS symptoms can range from 50% to 90% among regular computer users. CVS occurs due to poor computer use behaviors such as incorrect sitting position and lack of breaks while using the computer. Bad behavior in using computers is influenced by poor knowledge in using computers. Based on an initial survey, 70% of employees experienced CVS. Objective: To determine the relationship between knowledge and CVS prevention behavior of computer user employees at Setco Group Pekanbaru. Methods: Observational analytic research with cross sectional design, data collection technique used total sampling with a sample size of 122 respondents. Data analysis was performed bivariate using the Spearman correlation test. Results: Based on the Spearman correlation test on knowledge of CVS prevention behavior, it was found that there was a relationship between CVS prevention knowledge and CVS prevention behavior with a positive direction and weak correlation strength (p-value 0.011) and r 0.229. Conclusion: There is a relationship between knowledge and CVS prevention behavior in employees who use computers.

Impact of 20-20-20 Rule and Daily Reminders in Relieving Digital Eye Strain

Aim: To assess the impact of taking proper breaks and the role of reminders in enhancing compliance while working on digital devices in reducing the digital eye strain. Methodology: This was a questionnaire-based prospective study determining the role of taking proper breaks and the role of daily reminders in enhancing patient compliance and in-turn reducing digital eye strains. The study examines compliance variations with the 20-20 rule in two distinct groups, Group-I (Subjects who got daily reminders) and Group-II (Subjects who did not get any reminders). The occurrence of symptoms related to digital eye strains were also compared between the subjects in the two groups and from baseline. Results: A significant proportion of respondents were not aware of the 20-20 rule and do not actively implement it. Taking visual breaks reduce digital eye strain as both Group-1 and Group-2 generally have lower symptom prevalence compared to the Baseline group. However, Group-2 tends to have higher symptom prevalence compared to Group-1 indicating that reminders may play an important role in reduction in symptoms of digital eye strain. Conclusion: The 20-20-20 rule is a simple and effective technique to help prevent Computer Vision Syndrome and reduce the risk of Digital Eye Strain caused by prolonged computer use or digital device use. However, a lack of knowledge regarding the 20-20-20 rule prevails and it is important to spread awareness about the importance of visual breaks during digital work. Since getting proper reminders can enhance the compliance, incorporation of reminders in digital devices can be useful for people who often suffer from DES due to lack of proper breaks. Keywords: Digital Eye Strain, Computer Vision Syndrome, Dry Eyes, 20-20 Rule, Visual Breaks

THE VISUAL LOAD DUE TO MAN-MACHINE WORK (COMPUTER, DIGITAL DEVICES)

Prolonged use of computers and digital devices can lead to various physical and mental health problems. This study sought to assess computer and digital device ergonomics (CDDE) of designers, photographers, IT professionals, accountants and suppliers in several Bulgarian firms and to determine the visual (VS) and musculoskeletal (MS) symptoms reported by the respondents. In the study, a survey was made, through a survey, using a Google Form. 42 participants were surveyed, within two weeks, in 3 age groups: up to 30 years, from 30 to 40 years and over 40 years. A significant proportion of employees reported various symptoms of VS and MS. The most affected parts of the body are identified: neck, arm/shoulder/wrist and waist. Special attention is paid to eye strain, and the symptomatology is most often related to visual symptoms, such as eye fatigue, eye pain, sensitivity to light, and others. The research covers significant issues related to health care and the importance of ergonomics in practice.

INVESTIGATING THE PREVALENCE OF CARPAL TUNNEL SYNDROME IN OFFICE WORKERS

The widespread use of advanced technology and gadgets has led to numerous health problems, including wrist pain due to Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS). CTS is a common and costly issue among office workers. Although research indicates that CTS is not inherently related to work, it is a work-related neuropathy resulting from the compression of the median nerve due to repetitive stressful wrist postures, such as hyperextension or hyperflexion. Objective: This study aims to measure the prevalence of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) among office workers, considering computer usage and typing as risk factors, and to assess how job demands contribute to CTS at the workplace. Methods: A quantitative research model using a prospective survey design was employed. The study was conducted among office workers from the manufacturing and services industries in Punjab, Pakistan. A convenient sample of 280 office workers participated. Data were collected using the standardized Boston Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Questionnaire to evaluate the impact of CTS on activities of daily living (ADLs) and socioeconomic life. The study duration was six months. Data analysis was performed using SPSS software version 23.0. Results: The study found a comparatively high prevalence of work-related wrist and hand complaints, including clinically proven CTS, among youthful office employees in Pakistan. Regular discomfort while working significantly increased the likelihood of developing CTS. Extended periods of computer use without breaks also heightened the risk of wrist and hand symptoms. Conclusion: There is a significant prevalence of CTS among office workers in Pakistan linked to prolonged computer use and repetitive wrist postures. Effective interventions and ergonomic practices are essential to reduce the incidence and impact of CTS in the workplace.

INDUSTRIAL ERGONOMICS: EXAMINING ERGONOMIC PRACTICES AND COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME (CVS)

Computers have become a major component in daily life, especially in the context of higher education in this digital age. University lecturers increasingly rely on computers to perform various daily tasks, which is a trend that has intensified particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. The growing dependence on computers raises concerns about the negative health implications that may arise from long-term use. One of the main effects is Computer Vision Syndrome (CSV). CSV is a result of continuous computer use and can have a negative impact on eye health. One strategy to address this issue is to implement ergonomic principles when using computers. This study aims to investigate ergonomic practices among university lecturers, as well as the prevalence of CSV among them. In addition, this study aims to determine the relationship between CVS and ergonomics. This study involves data collection through questionnaires which the respondents are university lecturers in Malaysia. A total of 245 randomly selected respondents answered the questionnaire distributed through an online platform. The data obtained was analyzed using descriptive and Chi Square analysis, exploring ergonomic practices such as eye distance from the screen, viewing angle, keyboard position, light intensity, position of neck, head, wrist, thigh position and stretching practices. According to the study's findings, over 56% of lecturers incorporate ergonomic principles when using computers; nevertheless, only 38.4% of respondents adhere to the recommendation for keyboard viewing distance. Next, the CVS symptoms are categorized into three, namely eyes, vision and head, neck, and shoulders. A comparison between these three categories of symptoms showed that the head, neck, and shoulders symptoms were the most significant with 42.1% of the respondents showing moderate and severe symptoms. It is followed by vision and finally symptoms to the eyes, with the percentage of 22.9% and 19.6%, respectively. In addition, it was found that one vision symptom is associated to monitor distance (p 0.05). The findings from this research contributed valuable insights into understanding the occupational risks associated with prolonged computer use in academic settings. By raising awareness and potentially implementing preventative measures, this study helps to promote better well-being among university lecturers.

Prevalence of Neck Pain and Associated Disabilities among Students who Use Computers

Background: Neck pain is increasingly prevalent among computer users, leading to significant health concerns and impacting daily activities. Understanding the prevalence and associated disabilities of neck pain in this population is crucial for developing effective preventive measures and interventions. Objective: To investigate the prevalence of neck pain and associated disabilities among university students who use computers, and to identify the factors contributing to these conditions. Methods: This cross-sectional study was conducted over six months at Akhtar Saeed Medical and Dental College, Lahore. A sample of 144 students from DPT, MBBS, BDS, and Pharm-D programs, aged 20-28 years, was selected. Participants included both males and females who used computers for more than two hours daily and had no history of cervical trauma or underlying medical conditions. Data were collected using the Neck Disability Index (NDI) questionnaire and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS). Ethical approval was obtained from the Institutional Review Board, and informed consent was secured from all participants. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 25, with descriptive statistics summarizing demographic information and inferential statistics examining associations between neck pain and risk factors. Results: The study found that 29.2% of participants reported no pain, 20.8% had very mild pain, 45.8% had moderate pain, and 4.2% experienced severe pain. Weak correlations were observed between neck pain and disabilities, with 33.33% of participants able to care for themselves without pain, 62.50% able to care for themselves with extra pain, and 4.17% finding personal care difficult and slow. Regarding headaches, 16.67% reported no headaches, 20.83% had slight headaches infrequently, and 62.50% experienced moderate headaches frequently. Conclusion: The study concluded that a significant number of university students suffer from neck pain due to prolonged computer use, with most experiencing mild to moderate pain. Preventive measures, including ergonomic interventions and educational initiatives on proper posture and taking breaks, are essential to reduce the incidence of neck pain and improve the quality of life for computer users.

Efficacy of Yashtimadhu Ghritha Tarpana in Computer Vision Syndrome

Computer Vision Syndrome is the name given to eye problems caused by prolonged computer use including: Eye irritation (Dry eyes, itchy eyes, red eyes) Blurred vision, Headache. As we enter the 21st century, the growing use of Video Display Terminal (VDT) like Computer, Tablet, Smart phones etc. in the home and office brings with it an increase in health risks, especially for the eyes. One eye problem, called Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), is afflicting more and more people who find themselves constantly in front of Video Display Terminal. Symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome include Headache, Blurred vision, Burning sensation, Fatigue, Dry eyes, Irritated eyes, Double vision, and Difficulty re-focusing the eyes. These symptoms can be further aggravated by improper lighting conditions and air moving fast the eyes. Dry eye is a major symptom that is targeted in the therapy of computer vision syndrome. Acharya Susrutha mentioned Tarpanam, Putapakam, Sekam, Acshyothanam, Anjana the Kriya Kalpas for Netra Rogas. Tarpana is indicated when the eyes are fatigue inactive, Sushka (dry), Ruksha (rough), injured, patients of Vata and Pitta vitiation, when there is squint, loss of lashes, clouded vision, difficulty in opening the eyes etc. conditions, Tarpana should be done to the patients.

Overview of the incidence and risk factors of computer vision syndrome among office workers at PT XYZ, Pasuruan, East Java

Computers have millions of benefits and functions for their users, but excessive use of computers can also have negative impacts on health, one of which is Computer Vision Syndrome. Computer Vision Syndrome is an eye health problem commonly referred to as digital eye strain, which describes a group of problems experienced related to eye health and vision due to prolonged use of computers, tablets, digital magazines and cell phones. The research is quantitative descriptive research with a cross sectional approach. The research subjects used were all office workers at PT. XYZ, Pasuruan has 21 workers. From 21 samples, it is known that CVS occurred in section workers office PT. XYZ Pasuruan was 52.38% with the complaints most often felt by workers were dry eyes (66.67%), headaches or dizziness (52.38%), blurred vision (52.38%), and difficulty focusing when looking. short distance (47.62%). The incidence of CVS was found most frequently in female workers (80%), the duration of computer use was as long as≥ 4 hours a day (58.82%), eye position that is not at the same level as the computer (75%), and respondents who have a viewing distance of &lt; 50 cm from the computer. (100%).

A Study to Assess the Effectiveness of Interventional Package on Computer Vision Syndrome among Computer Users at Selected Institutions, Silvassa, Dadra and Nagar Haveli

Background : Computer vision syndrome or digital eye strain as a group of eye and vision related problems that result from prolonged use of computer. Globally, at least 2.2 billion people have a near or distance vision impairment. It is estimated that nearly 60 million people suffer from CVS globally, and that new cases occur each year. However, interventional package on computer vision syndrome will help computer users to enhance knowledge and prevention of Computer vision syndrome. Aim: This study aimed to assess the effectiveness of interventional package on computer vision syndrome among computer users. Methodology : An experimental research design to assess the effectiveness interventional package on computer vision syndrome among computer users. Simple random sampling was used to select 100 samples and equally divided into control and experimental group. Self reported checklist was used to collect data. Result: The analysis of the study revealed In survey had done among 150 subjects, the maximum number of subjects 93 (62%) had mild level, 34 (22.66%) subjects had moderate and 4 ( 2.66%) subjects had severe level of computer vision syndrome and 19 (12.66%) subjects had no computer vision syndrome. The majority of subjects belonged to 20-30 years of age. 42% belonged to female category. 47.33% were bachelor degree. 58.66% were having 1-5 year of experience and 90% were belongs to Hindu religion.. In experimental group the pre test mean score was 9.18 with standard deviation of 2.134 and post test mean score was 7.16 with standard deviation of 2.044 and mean difference was 2.02. The obtained ‘t’ value (14.28) was significance at p &lt;0.0007 level. Gender and educational qualification have significant association with the level of computer vision syndrome. Conclusion: The result showed that there was significant decrease level of computer vision syndrome among computer users in experimental group after administration of interventional package. Keywords: Computer vision syndrome, Interventional package, Ophthalmic exercise

Predicting mechanical neck pain intensity in computer professionals using machine learning: identification and correlation of key features.

Mechanical neck pain has become prevalent among computer professionals possibly because of prolonged computer use. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between neck pain intensity, anthropometric metrics, cervical range of motion, and related disabilities using advanced machine learning techniques. This study involved 75 computer professionals, comprising 27 men and 48 women, aged between 25 and 44 years, all of whom reported neck pain following extended computer sessions. The study utilized various tools, including the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain measurement, anthropometric tools for body metrics, a Universal Goniometer for cervical ROM, and the Neck Disability Index (NDI). For data analysis, the study employed SPSS (v16.0) for basic statistics and a suite of machine-learning algorithms to discern feature importance. The capability of the kNN algorithm is evaluated using its confusion matrix. The "NDI Score (%)" consistently emerged as the most significant feature across various algorithms, while metrics like age and computer usage hours varied in their rankings. Anthropometric results, such as BMI and body circumference, did not maintain consistent ranks across algorithms. The confusion matrix notably demonstrated its classification process for different VAS scores (mild, moderate, and severe). The findings indicated that 56% of the pain intensity, as measured by the VAS, could be accurately predicted by the dataset. Machine learning clarifies the system dynamics of neck pain among computer professionals and highlights the need for different algorithms to gain a comprehensive understanding. Such insights pave the way for creating tailored ergonomic solutions and health campaigns for this population.

To Study Effects of Muscle Energy Technique and Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation on Computer Users Suffering from Neck Pain : A Comparative Study

Prolonged use of computers during daily work activities and recreation is often cited as a cause of neck pain. Neck pain and computer users are clearly connected due to extended periods of sitting in a certain position with no breaks to stretch the neck muscles. Pro-longed computer use with neck bent forward, will cause the anterior neck muscles to gradually get shorter and tighter, while the muscles in the back of neck will grow longer and weaker. These changes will lead to development of neck pain. METHODOLOGY: A total 40 subjects were selected for study. They were divided into 2 groups 20 in each. Group A was given Muscle Energy Technique, And Group B was given Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation .Treatment was given 5 days per week, for 6 weeks. Outcome measure in form of NPRS ,And NDI were recorded on 1st day before treatment and after 6 weeks. RESULT: Group A and B showed significant improvement in all three outcome measures within group (P&gt;0.05). Between Group A and B were significant (p&gt;0.05). So, three groups were shows significant difference. CONCLUSIONS: The results of this Comparative study indicated that the treatment in all three Groups (Muscle Energy Technique And Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation) are effective in participants with Computer Users Suffering From neck pain on pain and functional disability. However, MET was found to be superior to Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation alone in participants with Computer Users Suffering From neck pain.

A systematic review of work-related musculoskeletal disorders and risk factors among computer users

IntroductionRapid technological developments, especially in the use of electronic devices, have affected workers. MSDs are a major burden for both employees and employers, and in contemporary society. Millions of computer workers suffer musculoskeletal diseases and it is the most common cause of occupational illness in the USA and result in medical costs and absenteeism that cost the sector between $45 and $54 billion annually. A single review was done about WMSDs, however it only investigated neck and upper extremities disorders. Therefore, this study aimed to review epidemiological evidence about the prevalence and risk factors of overall WMSDs among computer user bankers and office workers. MethodsAn extensive literature search was undertaken in the PubMed, Web of Sciences, Google Scholar, and Scopus databases. Articles published in peer-reviewed English-language journals were considered for inclusion criteria. Articles published in conference proceedings, reports, abstracts, and not full text were excluded. After a thorough search of databases, a total of 90 articles were discovered, and finally, 25 of them met the inclusion criteria and were investigated in detail. ResultThe magnitude of WMSDs ranged from 33.8 to 95.3 %. The lower back, neck, upper back, and shoulder were the most affected body parts, and the elbow, hip/thigh, knee, wrist/hand, and ankle/feet were the least affected body parts. Prolonged computer use, being older, repetitive moments, female sex, working in awkward posture, low educational status, a lack of physical exercise, and ergonomics training were significantly affected by MSDs. Conclusionand recommendation: The prevalence of WMSDS was very high, and as a result, an interventional study should be conducted. Reducing prolonged use of computers and working in the right posture will reduce the magnitude of MSD among computer users.

Environmental and Occupational Triggers of Dry Eye Symptoms in the Ahsa Region of Saudi Arabia: A Cross-Sectional Study.

This cross-sectional study aimed to investigate the associations between environmental and occupational factors and the prevalence of dry eye symptoms among participants from the Ahsa region of Saudi Arabia. Participants from urban, rural, and suburban areas seeking medical care at primary health centers were recruited through systematic random sampling. Data on demographics, exposures, and ocular health were captured using a structured questionnaire. Dry eye symptoms were evaluated using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), Impact of Dry Eye on Everyday Life (IDEEL), and Symptom Assessment in Dry Eye (SANDE) questionnaires. Logistic regression analysis examined the relationships between environmental/occupational factors and the prevalence of dry eye symptoms. Key exposures included particulate matter (PM) (60%), low humidity (55%), wind/dust (50%), prolonged computer use (65%), and chemical irritants (45%). These factors were significantly associated with an increased prevalence of dry eye symptoms, with the following odds ratios (ORs): PM (1.85, 95% CI: 1.35-2.52), low humidity (1.45, 95% CI: 1.05-2.00), wind and dust (1.60, 95% CI: 1.20-2.14), prolonged computer use (2.10, 95% CI: 1.55-2.85), and chemical irritants (1.75, 95% CI: 1.30-2.35). All associations were statistically significant (p < 0.05). The use of protective equipment was associated with reduced odds of dry eye symptoms (OR 0.60, 95% CI: 0.42-0.85, p = 0.03). This study identifies significant associations between specific environmental and occupational exposures and the prevalence of dry eye symptoms. Reducing modifiable exposures through policy, workplace enhancements, and clinical preventative strategies is essential to mitigate the burden of dry eye symptoms related to modern lifestyles and technology.

Visual, ocular surface, and extraocular diagnostic criteria for determining the prevalence of computer vision syndrome: a cross-sectional smart-survey-based study.

The American Optometric Association defines computer vision syndrome (CVS), also known as digital eye strain, as "a group of eye- and vision-related problems that result from prolonged computer, tablet, e-reader and cell phone use". We aimed to create a well-structured, valid, and reliable questionnaire to determine the prevalence of CVS, and to analyze the visual, ocular surface, and extraocular sequelae of CVS using a novel and smart self-assessment questionnaire. This multicenter, observational, cross-sectional, descriptive, survey-based, online study included 6853 complete online responses of medical students from 15 universities. All participants responded to the updated, online, fourth version of the CVS questionnaire (CVS-F4), which has high validity and reliability. CVS was diagnosed according to five basic diagnostic criteria (5DC) derived from the CVS-F4. Respondents who fulfilled the 5DC were considered CVS cases. The 5DC were then converted into a novel five-question self-assessment questionnaire designated as the CVS-Smart. Of 10 000 invited medical students, 8006 responded to the CVS-F4 survey (80% response rate), while 6853 of the 8006 respondents provided complete online responses (85.6% completion rate). The overall CVS prevalence was 58.78% (n = 4028) among the study respondents; CVS prevalence was higher among women (65.87%) than among men (48.06%). Within the CVS group, the most common visual, ocular surface, and extraocular complaints were eye strain, dry eye, and neck/shoulder/back pain in 74.50% (n = 3001), 58.27% (n = 2347), and 80.52% (n = 3244) of CVS cases, respectively. Notably, 75.92% (3058/4028) of CVS cases were involved in the Mandated Computer System Use Program. Multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that the two most statistically significant diagnostic criteria of the 5DC were ≥2 symptoms/attacks per month over the last 12 months (odds ratio [OR] = 204177.2; P <0.0001) and symptoms/attacks associated with screen use (OR = 16047.34; P <0.0001). The CVS-Smart demonstrated a Cronbach's alpha reliability coefficient of 0.860, Guttman split-half coefficient of 0.805, with perfect content and construct validity. A CVS-Smart score of 7-10 points indicated the presence of CVS. The visual, ocular surface, and extraocular diagnostic criteria for CVS constituted the basic components of CVS-Smart. CVS-Smart is a novel, valid, reliable, subjective instrument for determining CVS diagnosis and prevalence and may provide a tool for rapid periodic assessment and prognostication. Individuals with positive CVS-Smart results should consider modifying their lifestyles and screen styles and seeking the help of ophthalmologists and/or optometrists. Higher institutional authorities should consider revising the Mandated Computer System Use Program to avoid the long-term consequences of CVS among university students. Further research must compare CVS-Smart with other available metrics for CVS, such as the CVS questionnaire, to determine its test-retest reliability and to justify its widespread use.

Comparison of McKenzie and Isometric Exercises on Neck Functions of Computer Users with Forward Head Posture

Introduction: Prolonged use of computer can lead to poor posture such as forward head posture (FHP). This posture is associated with imbalance and stiffness of the neck muscles, lack of postural awareness and inappropriate ergonomics, resulting in work-related musculoskeletal disorders. These disturbances can affect the performance and productivity of office workers. Postural awareness training, neck exercises, and modalities are interventions in FHP management. Research that compares the effectiveness of cervical McKenzie and isometric exercise on neck functional score in computer users with forward head posture has not been conducted.&#x0D; Methods: This research was a quasi-experimental. The participants, 24 computer users working at Kariadi Hospital, Semarang, were divided into 2 groups by purposive sampling receiving cervical McKenzie exercise (n=12) and cervical isometric exercise (n=12). Each group received different exercise. Neck functional score was assessed by Neck Disability Index (NDI) questionnaire before and after intervention. The mean differences before and after treatment, as well as between groups was compared statistically using paired t-test.&#x0D; Results: The mean NDI score in the McKenzie group after treatment showed an improvement of 7.84 ± 3.54 with p = 0.002. The mean NDI score in the isometric group after treatment also showed an improvement of 3.93 ± 3.75 with p = 0.004. The difference in NDI score improvement in the cervical McKenzie group was greater than the one in isometric group and statistically significant with p = 0.017.&#x0D; Conclusion: Cervical McKenzie exercise was proved to be more effective in improving neck functional scores in patients with FHP compared to cervical isometric exercise.

Assessment of oculomotor function after prolonged computer use

To analyze the specific effects of prolonged computer use on oculomotor function, we propose an oculomotor function evaluation system to analyze changes in oculomotor movement function by using an eye tracker to record eye movement data when performing gaze, smooth pursuit, and saccade under normal condition, after one hour and one and a half hours of continuous working at a computer. The captured eye movement data is pre-processed, and then data features are calculated and analyzed to understand the specific effects of continuously using the computer on the oculomotor function. The results show that the oculomotor function decreases as we gaze at the computer screen for longer periods, as evidenced by a decrease in the stability of the gaze function, a reduction in the gaze focus, a reduction in the speed of eye saccades, and a decrease in the smooth pursuit function. In short, the oculomotor function worsens after prolonged working at a computer. This paper presents the effects of continuously using the computer quantificationally for the first time. The proposed oculomotor function evaluation system could also be used to assess patients who have a disability in oculomotor function and specific individuals, e.g. pilots.