Computer use and vision-related problems amongst students in Ajman, UAE

ABSTRACT

The extensive use of computers as medium of teaching and learning in Universities necessitates introspection into the extent of computer-related health disorders amongst the student population. There are no documented studies done in this regard in Ajman. This study was undertaken to assess the pattern of computer usage and related visual problems, among University students in Ajman, UAE. A total of 500 Students studying in Gulf Medical University, Ajman and Ajman University of Science and Technology were approached for the study. A pretested and content-validated self-administered questionnaire was used for data collection. Demographic characteristics, pattern of usage of computers and associated visual symptoms were recorded in the questionnaire. 471 questionnaires were returned and analyzed. Chi-square test was used to determine the association between the variables. The crude Odds Ratio [OR] was determined using simple binary logistic regression and adjusted OR was calculated using multiple logistic regressions. The most common vision-related problems reported among computer users were headache, burning sensation in the eyes and dry/tired/sore eyes, with 53.3%, 54.8% and 48% of students reporting the same respectively. Female students were found to be at a higher risk. A significantly higher proportion of respondents [60%] employing a viewing distance of less than 50 cm complained of headache. The incidence of headache [51.7%], dry eyes [34.5%] and burning sensation [44.8] was lower when screen filters were used. Sustained periods of close screen work without screen filters were found to be associated with occurrence of the symptoms and decreased productivity of the students. More attention needs to be given in an attempt to reduce the impact of computer-related vision problems and the interruptions in work