Key findings:

The study in District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, assessed awareness of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) among 400 adults, finding that 66.25% correctly defined CVS and its causes. However, knowledge gaps existed in prevention and management strategies, with only 43.75% identifying effective measures. Awareness of the "20-20-20" rule was low (22.25%), indicating a need for public education on practical strategies for combating CVS.

What is known and what is new?

The study reaffirmed existing knowledge about Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) among residents of District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, highlighting their understanding of its definition and causes. However, it also revealed new insights into significant knowledge gaps regarding preventive and management strategies, the "20-20-20" rule, and awareness of local initiatives promoting Digital Eye Wellness.

What is the implication, and what should change now?

The study's implications suggest an immediate need for public education campaigns in District Kangra to address knowledge gaps on practical strategies for combating Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). These campaigns should focus on promoting ergonomic practices, raising awareness of the "20-20-20" rule, and highlighting local resources for CVS prevention. Addressing these gaps can significantly enhance ocular health in the digital age.

In the contemporary digital age, our lives are increasingly intertwined with screens, whether through computers, smartphones, or tablets. This pervasive screen time has transformed the way we work, learn, and connect. However, this digital revolution has also ushered in a concerning ocular health challenge known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) or Digital Eye Strain. District Kangra, situated amidst the picturesque landscapes of Himachal Pradesh, is no exception to the widespread use of digital devices. As screens become integral to daily life, understanding CVS, its impact, and adopting effective strategies for prevention and management is paramount. [1-4]

CVS is a multifaceted ocular condition resulting from prolonged digital screen use. It encompasses a spectrum of symptoms, including eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, dry eyes, and neck and shoulder discomfort. These symptoms can be both bothersome and disruptive, affecting productivity, well-being, and overall quality of life. [5,6]

The global prevalence of CVS has surged in recent years, mirroring the surge in digital device utilization. While CVS is not classified as a sight-threatening disorder, it poses a significant public health concern due to its ubiquity and the potential for long-term eye discomfort and reduced visual efficiency. The residents of District Kangra, like individuals worldwide, are increasingly vulnerable to the impact of CVS, necessitating a closer examination of the levels of awareness and knowledge regarding this digital-age ocular challenge. [7-9]

This study seeks to explore the awareness and understanding of CVS among the general population of District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. By delving into the specific symptoms, risk factors, and strategies for CVS prevention and management, this research aims to identify knowledge gaps and empower individuals with information to safeguard their ocular health in the digital era.

Objectives of the Study:

The objective of this study is to gauge the levels of awareness and knowledge about Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain) and strategies for reducing its impact among the general population of District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh

• Research Approach -Descriptive

• Research Design- Cross-sectional survey design

• Study area:  District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh

• Study duration- between April 2023 to July 2023

• Study population: The study's target population encompassed all adults aged 18 and above who had been residents of District Kangra for a minimum of 12 months

• Sample size- A robust sample size of 400 adults was determined using a 95% confidence level, an estimated knowledge level of 50% regarding Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain), a precise 5% absolute error margin, and a conservative 5% non-response rate. 

• Study tool: A google form questionnaire consisting of questions regarding socio-demography and knowledge regarding Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain) was created. The questionnaire was initially pre-tested on a small number of participants to identify any difficulty in understanding by the respondents. 

• Description of Tool- 

1. Demographic data survey instrument: The demographic form elicited information on participants’ background: age, marital status, religion, employment, education and many more.

2. Questionnaire: The questionnaire contains 20 structured knowledge related questions regarding Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain). One mark was given for each correct answer and zero for incorrect answer. The maximum score was 20 and minimum score was zero. Scoring was done on the basis of marks as >80%(16-20)=very good,60-79%(12-15) =Good,41-59% ( 8-11)=Fair,<40% (< 8)=poor

• Validity of tool - by the experts in this field

• Data collection- Data was collected under the guidance of supervisors. The google form questionnaire was circulated among the residents of District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh for responses using online modes like e-mail and social media platforms like Whatsapp groups, Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin till the 400 responses were collected. 

• Data analysis- Data was collected and entered in Microsoft excel spread sheet, cleaned for errors and analyzed with Epi Info V7 Software with appropriate statistical test in terms of frequencies and percentage. 

Ethical Considerations- Participants confidentiality and anonymity was maintained. 

The primary objective of this study was to gauge the understanding of Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain) among the general population of District Kangra. A total of 400 participants took part in the study, with 279 (69.75%) residing in urban areas and 121 (30.25%) in rural areas. Table: 1

Table-1: Knowledge regarding Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain) among study participants

Table-2: Knowledge scores towards Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain) among study participants

In the present study 29.75% (119) participants had very good knowledge (16-20 marks) towards Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain), 41.25% (165) had good knowledge (12-15 marks), 16.25% (65) had fair knowledge  (8-11 marks) and 12.75% (51) having poor knowledge  (<8 marks). Table: 2

The contemporary era is marked by the ubiquity of digital screens, with computers, smartphones, and tablets becoming integral to daily life. This digital revolution has led to a significant ocular health concern known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) or Digital Eye Strain. This discussion will delve into the findings of the study concerning the awareness, knowledge, and strategies for combating CVS among the general population of District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh, and compare these findings with existing research to identify knowledge gaps and areas for potential improvement.

The study revealed that 66.25% of participants could correctly define what Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain) is and identify some common causes. This level of understanding is encouraging, as it indicates that a substantial portion of the population is aware of the condition's existence and its association with digital device use.

Approximately 66% of respondents could list typical symptoms associated with CVS, demonstrating a good understanding of how prolonged screen time can manifest in eye strain, headaches, and other discomforts. Furthermore, 54.5% recognized that specific age groups may be more susceptible to Digital Eye Strain, suggesting an awareness of the condition's differential impact across age demographics.

While awareness of CVS symptoms and susceptibility factors is relatively high, knowledge regarding strategies for prevention and management exhibits room for improvement. Only 43.75% of participants could identify strategies to prevent or reduce Digital Eye Strain while using digital devices. This indicates a knowledge gap in practical measures that can mitigate the impact of CVS.

Around 31% of respondents reported taking regular breaks from screen time to reduce eye strain. This practice aligns with recommendations for preventing CVS. However, only 21.75% could name ergonomic adjustments that can help minimize Digital Eye Strain, indicating that knowledge about proper workspace setup may be limited.

Recognizing the importance of proper lighting in preventing Digital Eye Strain, 53.75% of participants understood its significance. Additionally, 56.75% believed that adjusting screen brightness and contrast settings could help reduce eye strain, indicating an awareness of the role of screen settings in eye comfort.

A significant proportion (64%) recognized that prolonged Digital Eye Strain can lead to more severe eye problems over time. Moreover, 69% understood how CVS can affect sleep patterns and proposed measures to mitigate this effect. This knowledge highlights an understanding of the potential consequences of CVS beyond immediate discomfort.

Only 22.25% had heard of the "20-20-20" rule, which suggests taking a 20-second break to look at something 20 feet away every 20 minutes of screen time. This rule is a well-known strategy for CVS prevention and indicates a potential area for increased education. Furthermore, 54.5% acknowledged experiencing other physical discomforts, such as neck or back pain, during extended digital device use, emphasizing the multisystem impact of CVS.

Approximately 27.25% were aware of local initiatives or resources in District Kangra that promote Digital Eye Wellness. While this awareness is limited, it suggests the presence of community-level efforts to address CVS. Additionally, 54.25% believed that Digital Eye Strain had a significant impact on individuals in their community, emphasizing the condition's societal relevance. Nearly 40% of participants had sought professional advice or treatment for symptoms of Computer Vision Syndrome. This indicates a willingness to address eye discomfort through medical intervention, highlighting the perceived severity of CVS symptoms.

The findings from this study demonstrate a reasonable level of awareness regarding Computer Vision Syndrome among the residents of District Kangra, Himachal Pradesh. However, knowledge gaps persist, particularly in practical strategies for CVS prevention and management. These findings are in line with previous research, which often identifies disparities in knowledge and practices related to CVS. [8,9]

This study assessed the awareness and knowledge levels of Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain) among the general population of District Kangra. While some participants demonstrated good awareness and understanding of CVS, there are significant knowledge gaps in practical strategies for prevention and management. Enhancing public education about CVS, including ergonomic practices, the 20-20-20 rule, and the availability of local resources, is crucial for safeguarding ocular health in the digital era.

By addressing these knowledge gaps and promoting effective strategies for CVS prevention and management, District Kangra can work toward minimizing the impact of Digital Eye Strain and improving the overall well-being of its residents in an increasingly screen-oriented world.

Funding: No funding sources 

Conflict of interest: None declared

Ethical approval: The study was approved by the Institutional Ethics Committee of IGMC

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