Prevalence of computer vision syndrome among students at Bindura University of Science and Education

Author

Chisayinyerwa, Vongai C.

Chashamba, Rutendo E.

Title

Prevalence of computer vision syndrome among students at Bindura University of Science and Education

Abstract

BACKGROUND: A lot of students are subjected to a number of ocular hazards emanating from prolonged use of electronic devices that might lead to detrimental health outcomes, especially in undeveloped nations like, Zimbabwe. To crown it all, not much is known about computer vision syndrome, its symptoms, causes and the preventative measures. This study assessed the knowledge and prevalence of computer vision syndrome among students at Bindura University of Science and Education.
AIM: To determine the prevalence level of knowledge of computer vision syndrome among university students.
METHODS: This cross-sectional survey was carried out among students who are currently studying at BUSE. Stratified random sampling technique was used to divide students according to their faculty thereby yielding a total of 4 strata. A simple random sampling technique was then utilized to haphazardly select participants from each stratum.
RESULTS: The study was conducted among 370 students with majority (56.7%) being females. The mean age of participants was 25.16. The prevalence of computer vision syndrome among undergraduates was 33.34 %( n =). The prevalence was higher in females (20.3%) as compared to males (13.0%). Majority (81.62%) of the students had poor knowledge of computer vision syndrome, with amlws being dominant. The most prevalent symptoms were headache (59.73%), Eye strain and fatigue (40.27%) and tearing (37.30%). Prevalence of computer vision syndrome was found to be significantly associated with the type of digital devices used (p=0.000103), time spent on screens daily (1.36E-05), refractive error (p=5.76E11), time spent on computers during the night (p=0.043741) and the years spent while using electronic devices (p=1.78E-07).
CONCLUSION: The study’s outcomes highlighted that digital device users should improve their knowledge of computer vision syndrome, stakeholders were recommended to hold more 10 awareness campaigns to help reduce prevalence and improve knowledge of computer vision syndrome among students.

Date

June 2025

Publisher

BUSE

Keywords

Knowledge

Prevalence

Computer Vision Syndrome

Students

Supervisor

Dr. M. A. Kwarteng