iarjhcpIARJHCPIARJHCP2789-604810.47310/iarjhcp.2025.v05i01.002Screen Time vs. Eye Time': Evaluating Awareness of Digital Eye Strain in the Tech EraBackground: Digital Eye Strain (DES), also known as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS), is increasingly common due to rising screen exposure in professional and educational settings. Characterized by eye fatigue, dryness, headaches and visual discomfort, DES often goes unnoticed due to limited public awareness of its symptoms and preventive strategies. This study aimed to assess DES awareness, knowledge and preventive practices among residents of Himachal Pradesh, India, while identifying demographic patterns influencing awareness levels. Materials  and Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted among 400 adults in Himachal Pradesh using a structured online questionnaire. The survey collected socio-demographic data, assessed DES knowledge and evaluated awareness of preventive practices. Participants' knowledge was categorized as Very Good (>80%), Good (60%-79%), Fair (41%-59%) and Poor (<40%). Data analysis was conducted using SPSS (v26.0) with significance set at p<0.05. Results: Findings revealed that while most participants had a sound understanding of DES causes (81.8%) and preventive strategies like the 20-20-20 rule (73%), gaps remained in recognizing symptoms such as headaches (64.5%) and visual fatigue (67%). Awareness of environmental triggers (66%) and nutritional support (61.8%) was also limited. Approximately 38% scored "Very Good," 39.5% scored "Good," while 15.8% and 6.8% achieved "Fair" and "Poor" scores, respectively. Knowledge gaps were more pronounced among rural populations and those with lower educational attainment. Conclusion: Although awareness regarding DES is encouraging in some areas, gaps persist in recognizing key symptoms, environmental triggers and effective preventive practices. Focused educational campaigns and workplace wellness programs are crucial to improving public understanding and promoting healthier screen-use behaviors. Future initiatives should prioritize vulnerable populations in rural and underserved regions.