Prevalence and associated factors of digital eye Strain among regular undergraduate students of Wolaita sodo university, wolaita sodo, Ethiopia: a Cross-sectional study

Abstract

Introduction: The widespread use of digital devices like computers and smartphones has increased Digital Eye Strain (DES), particularly among students. DES is associated with prolonged device use, poor ergonomics, inadequate screen settings, multitasking, varying lighting conditions, and lack of breaks. This condition can affect vision, academic performance, and overall well-being. Objectives: To assess the prevalence of digital eye strain and its associated factors among regular undergraduate students of Wolaita Sodo University, Wolaita Sodo, South Ethiopia. Methodology: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted from October to December 2024 at Wolaita Soddo University among regular undergraduate students. Data were collected using a self-administered structured questionnaire, entered into Epi Data version 3.1, and analyzed using SPSS version 26. Descriptive statistics like frequency, mean, standard deviation, percentage, and proportion were computed. Bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the factors associated with digital eye strain. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) with 95% CI and p-value <0.05 were used to determine the level of significant association. Results: Of the 422 students, 267 (63.3%) were male. Most (95%) reported using digital devices for more than 5 hours daily, 75% used multiple devices, 42% adjusted screen brightness, 17% were aware of the 20-20-20 rule, and 30.6% used blue light filters. The prevalence was 79.6%. Factors significantly associated with DES included the use of multiple digital devices (AOR = 5.21, 95% CI: 2.68–10.11), more than 5hrs spent per day on digital devices (AOR = 3.89, 95% CI: 1.07–14.10), lack of protective eyewear (AOR = 6.46, 95% CI: 3.33–12.52), failure to adjust screen brightness (AOR = 3.9, 95% CI: 2.09–7.32), lack of knowledge of the 20-20-20 rule (AOR = 5.77, 95% CI: 2.81–11.82), and not using blue light filters (AOR = 3.15, 95% CI: 1.69–5.83) (p < 0.05). Conclusion and recommendation: The study found a DES prevalence of 79.6% and identified factors including prolonged screen time (>5hr/d), multiple device usage, and inadequate eye care practices. To reduce DES, students should limit screen time, use the 20-20-20 rule, wear protective eyewear, and adjust brightness. The university should implement awareness campaigns on DES prevention