Prevalence of Computer Vision Syndrome Among University Students and Faculty During COVID-19 Pandemic

IntroductionThe COVID-19 lockdown drastically increased screen time among students and faculty members due to online learning. Previous studies suggested increased screen time causes computer vision syndrome (CVS). This study aims to compare the prevalence of CVS among students and faculty in the UAE during the COVID-19 pandemic. MethodsA descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 386 university students and faculty members across the UAE. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed online to collect socio-demographic data, symptoms of CVS, its associated factors, and the use of preventive measures. Informed consent was obtained, and participants who met the inclusion criteria were enrolled in the study. The indicated data were identified and analyzed using the 25th version of the SPSS program. ResultsFemales were more likely to have computer vision syndrome, neck pain, back pain, and wrist pain. Students had a higher total screen time and a greater prevalence of Computer vision syndrome, 85.8% compared to faculty members. The prevalence of CVS was highest among students at the College of Science, 91.7%. Subjects who spent more time using the screen had more CVS symptoms than those who spent less time on screens (P= 0.039). Using laptops for more than 5 hours daily had a higher CVS prevalence of 90.6% (p=0.022). Wearing corrective eyeglasses was associated with increased CVS prevalence while taking breaks from the screen, which showed decreased prevalence. 52.5% of those with CVS experienced reduced productivity. ConclusionCVS was most prevalent in students; they also had higher screen time levels than faculty members.