DR. YESHA SAVANI

DR.CHETHANA WARAD, DR. MEHAK BHUTANI, DR. KEERTI NAIK, DR. SUGANYA SAMPATH

Abstract

Aim: Prevalence, symptoms and risk factors of DES among UG students in a medical college in South India

Methodology: Cross sectional study conducted among UG medical students using structured questionnaire administered online.

Results: Out of 596 respondents, 351 students (58.89%) experienced the symptoms of DES. Eye strain (34.10%), frequent headache (28.9%), rubbing of eyes (26.0%), watering (21.3%), burning sensation in eye (17.4%), redness (11.4%)- symptoms were reported. Prolonged Use of digital devices, presence of refractive errors and inadequate use of photochromic spectacles and dependence on social media for academic and recreational purposes – causes for development of DES.

Conclusion: Digital devices – an inevitable part of life. DES, common among medical students, significant risk factors need to be assessed to reduce the symptoms. It is of utmost importance to create awareness among medical students regarding digital eye strain.