PREVALENCE OF COMPUTER VISION SYNDROME IN THE UNIVERSITY OF BENIN COMMUNITY

ABSTRACT

Computer vision syndrome is an increasing challenge in workplaces and learning institutions including the individual use of digital screen devices such as desktops, laptops, tablets and smartphones among others. This study aims at assessing the prevalence of computer vision syndrome in the University of Benin Community. 252 participants, both males and females, aged 17-30 years were selected to fill the internet-based questionnaire for the survey. The questions were more closed-ended to assess the symptoms, coping strategies and awareness level among computer users in University of Benin community. The sample population were predominantly undergraduate students who resided within the school’s community in addition to other participants who were not undergraduates but worked on screens. Ethical approval was obtained and voluntary participation and anonymity of subjects was ensured. The data gathered were collected and upload on the SPPS statistical package version 23 and analysed using the CHI-Square at 5% level of significance and 95% confidence interval to assess the prevalence ratio of computer vision syndrome. The findings of the study revealed a significant prevalence of computer vision syndrome with p(0.000)<0.05. The study concluded that constant exposure of the eyes to prolonged hours of work on digital screens can lead to experiences of computer vision syndrome. Hence, level of awareness should be increased to educate computer users on best ways to protect their eyes from screen effect while using the computers. In conclusion, the results of the study showed a significant prevalence of computer vision syndrome of 82.4% with prevalent symptoms of eye strain 16.7%, constant headaches 19.2% and dry eyes 9.4%; the significant p-values (0.000) in the Chi-Square Tests suggest that there are likely associations between the symptoms and the number of hours spent on computer usage for both academic and non-academic purposes.