Computer Vision Syndrome Among Computer Users in Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK)

Authors

Keywords:

Computer Vision Syndrome, Digital Eye Strain, Headache, Neck Pain, Screen time.

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To determine the prevalence of computer vision syndrome among the computer users in Muzaffarabad, AJK.

STUDY DESIGN: Cross-sectional observational study

SETTING: Department of ophthalmology, Abbas institute of medical sciences (AIMS)

SAMPLING TECHNIQUE: non-probability purposive sampling technique

DURATION OF STUDY: Six months (April 2022 to September 2022)

MATERIAL AND METHOD: This institution based cross sectional study was carried out on 346 computer users of district Muzaffarabad AJK. All the participants within age group 18-40 years and who have used computer in 1 month preceding the date of the study were included in the study. Participants more than 40 years and less than 18 years and those who do not give inform written consent were excluded from study. SPSS version 26.0 was used to get results.

RESULTS: A total of 346 participants (45.4% males and 48.6% females) were included in study in the age range between 18 to 40 years. In the study group, 63.5% claimed that they have experienced at least one symptom related to Computer vision syndrome with eye fatigue (37.8%) and headaches (42.7%) being the most common.

CONCLUSION: Computer vision syndrome is a highly prevalent condition among computer users in Muzaffarabad AJK.

Author Biography

Qaim Ali Khan, Muhammad Tahir, Yasir Iqbal, Nauroz Fatima, Qurat Ul Ain Ghazanfar, Benish Ali, AJK Medical College Muzzafarabad

Objective: To determine the prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) among computer users in
Muzaffarabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir.
Study Design: Cross-sectional observational study.
Place and Duration of Study: Department of Ophthalmology, Abbas Institute of Medical Sciences (AIMS),
Muzaffarabad from April 1, 2022 to September 30, 2022.
Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 346 computer users aged 18–40 years, using digital devices. Participants with pre-existing eye disease (e.g., glaucoma, cataract, dry eye), or pregnancy were excluded. Quantitative data included age, screen time, duration of use, and symptom frequency, while qualitative data covered demographic characteristics, work environment, and subjective experiences of eye strain. Data were entered and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics such as means, standard deviations, and frequencies were computed and associations between categorical variables (e.g., screen time and CVS symptoms) were analyzed. A p-value ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: CVS symptoms were reported by 63.5% of respondents. Ocular complaints were more frequent (65%) than extra-ocular (35%), with eye fatigue (37.8%) and headaches (42.7%) being the most common symptoms.
Neck or shoulder pain was reported by 33.4% of symptomatic individuals. Most users (62.1%) preferred
medium screen brightness, and symptom relief was universally reported with increased screen breaks,
although no statistically significant correlation was found between break frequency and symptom severity.
Conclusion: We found computer vision syndrome in 63.5% of who use electronic devices. These findings
underscore the need for targeted ergonomic interventions and public education on safe screen practices.

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Published

2025-07-07

Issue

Vol. 20 No. 2 (2025): June

Section

Articles