Computer Vision Syndrome and its Predictors among Secretary Employees Working in Jimma University, Southwest Ethiopia

Abstract

Mekonnin Tesfa Lemma*, Mohammed Ibrahim Sadik, Yohannes Markos, Ashete Adere Gemeda and Leyla Temam Aleye

Background: Computer users are at high risk to experience eye discomfort and vision problems when viewing digital screens for extended periods. These problems are collectively termed Computer Vision Syndrome(CVS). Nearly more than 60 million people suffer from CVS globally with a million new cases occurring each year. The magnitude of CVS and its determinants are not well known in Ethiopia.

Methods: An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted on 217 secretary employees working at Jimma University. An interviewer-administered structured questionnaire was used to collect data. Data was collected through face to face interview. The collected data first entered Epi-data version 3.1 and then transformed into SPSS version 20.0 for data analysis. Binary logistic regressions were carried out to determine variables associated with CVS.

Results: The prevalence of CVS among study participants was 75.6%(95% CI=70.0, 81.1). Blurred vision 88(40.6%), extra-ocular symptoms 75(34.6%), eyestrain 66(30.4%), and headache 63(29.0%) were the most commonly reported symptoms of CVS. Duration of occupation >10 years (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) =3.165; 95%CI=1.16,) working on the computer on average for >6 hours per day (AOR=3.163; 95%CI=1.52, 6.59), not adjusting computer screen brightness (AOR=2.81; 95%CI=1.22, 6.47) and lack of awareness about CVS and its prevention measures (AOR=5.385; 95%CI= 2.55, 11.35) were factors at higher risk of developing CVS.

Conclusion: CVS is highly prevalent among secretary employees working at Jimma University. Arranging training program/health education to increase awareness on CVS and its prevention measures might minimize the risk of suffering CVS.