DRY EYE DISEASE AMONG ELECTRONIC GADGETS USERS WITH PROLONGED SCREEN TIME

Abstract

Background: Dry eye disease (DED) involves multiple factors affecting the eye’s surface, frequently aggravated by prolonged digital screen use. Healthcare professionals are increasingly exposed to electronic devices for work, yet data on occupational DED prevalence remain limited.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted at the Ophthalmology Department, Bacha Khan Medical College and Mardan Medical Complex, Pakistan. Hospital staff aged 18–65 years using electronic devices for ≥3 hours/day were included. Exclusion criteria were ocular pathology, prior ocular surgery, or contact lens use. DED diagnosis was based on tear film break-up time (TBUT <10 sec) and Schirmer’s test (<5 mm). Severity was assessed using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI). Data on demographics, occupational role, device type, and screen duration were collected. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS v22, with p ≤ 0.05 considered significant.

Results: Ninety-six participants (mean age 28.4 ± 7.4 years; 75% male) were enrolled, with average daily screen use of 7.5 ± 2.7 hours. Overall, DED prevalence was 13.5%, predominantly mild. Prevalence increased with age and among administrative staff, but no significant associations were observed with gender, socioeconomic status, staff role, device type, or timing of use.

Conclusion: Clinically confirmed DED affected roughly one in eight hospital staff with prolonged screen exposure. Although lower than in student populations, DED remains an occupational concern. Routine eye examinations, ergonomic adjustments, and scheduled visual breaks following the “20-20-20 rule” are advised to minimize digital eye strain. Longitudinal studies are needed to establish causal links and develop targeted preventive strategies.