In the contemporary era, marked by an accelerated integration of technology into daily life, the omnipresent use of electronic devices has given rise to various health challenges. One such challenge that has garnered increasing attention is Digital Eye Strain (DES), a multifaceted condition characterized by visual discomfort and fatigue stemming from prolonged exposure to digital screens.

Situated in the northern reaches of India, Himachal Pradesh represents a unique amalgamation of traditional culture and modern influences. As digital technology becomes omnipresent in this picturesque region, it is imperative to scrutinize the levels of awareness and knowledge pertaining to Digital Eye Strain among its diverse population. This study aspires to furnish a comprehensive evaluation of the awareness levels and preventive strategies related to Digital Eye Strain among the residents of Himachal Pradesh.

Extensive research has illuminated the health implications associated with prolonged digital screen usage. Symptoms encompass eye discomfort, dryness, headaches and blurred vision, collectively impacting the overall well-being of individuals. The American Optometric Association (AOA) underscores the importance of understanding and addressing Digital Eye Strain, advocating for proactive measures to mitigate its impact on eye health [1].

Despite the burgeoning literature on Digital Eye Strain, there remains a research void regarding the specific context of Himachal Pradesh. Customizing preventive strategies to the distinctive needs and characteristics of the local population is imperative for effective public health interventions. A study conducted by Sheppard et al. [2], underscores the significance of region-specific insights to develop targeted interventions for digital eye health.

This research aims to contribute to the existing knowledge base by delving into the intricacies of Digital Eye Strain awareness and prevention in Himachal Pradesh. By discerning current levels of awareness and knowledge among the general population, the study endeavors to lay the groundwork for tailored strategies promoting digital wellness in this culturally rich state.

To contextualize our exploration, we draw on pertinent research findings. A study by Gupta et al. [3], in India delves into the prevalence of Digital Eye Strain and associated risk factors. Additionally, the work of Patel and Patel [4], sheds light on strategies to reduce Digital Eye Strain among computer users in an Indian urban setting. These studies offer valuable insights into the local landscape of digital eye health [3-5].

As we navigate this inquiry into Digital Eye Strain in Himachal Pradesh, we anticipate that the outcomes will not only deepen our understanding of the issue but also provide essential insights to inform targeted interventions, safeguarding the ocular health of the region's residents.

Objectives of the Study

The objective of this study is to gauge the levels of awareness and knowledge about Digital Eye Strain and preventive strategies for reducing its impact among the general population of Himachal Pradesh.

• Research Approach: Descriptive

• Research Design: Cross-sectional survey design

• Study area: Himachal Pradesh

• Study duration: Between August 2023 to November 2023

• Study population: The study's target population encompassed all adults aged 18 and above who had been residents of Himachal Pradesh for a minimum of 12 months

• Sample size: A robust sample size of 400 adults was determined using a 95% confidence level, an estimated knowledge level of 50% regarding Digital Eye Strain, a precise 5% absolute error margin and a conservative 5% non-response rate.

• Study tool: A google form questionnaire consisting of questions regarding socio-demography and knowledge regarding Digital Eye Strain was created. The questionnaire was initially pre-tested on a small number of participants to identify any difficulty in understanding by the respondents 

Description of Tool

• Demographic data survey instrument: The demographic form elicited information on participants’ background: age, marital status, religion, employment, education and many more

• Questionnaire: The questionnaire contains 20 structured knowledge related questions regarding Digital Eye Strain. One mark was given for each correct answer and zero for incorrect answer. The maximum score was 20 and minimum score was zero. Scoring was done on the basis of marks as >80% (16-20) = very good, 60-79% (12-15) = Good, 41-59% (8-11) = Fair, <40% (<8) = poor

• Validity of tool: By the experts in this field

• Data collection: Data was collected under the guidance of supervisors. The google form questionnaire was circulated among the residents of Himachal Pradesh for responses using online modes like e-mail and social media platforms like Whatsapp groups, Facebook, Instagram and Linkedin till the 400 responses were collected 

• Data analysis: Data was collected and entered in Microsoft excel spread sheet, cleaned for errors and analyzed with Epi Info V7 Software with appropriate statistical test in terms of frequencies and percentage. 

• Ethical Considerations: Participants confidentiality and anonymity was maintained

The primary objective of this study was to gauge the understanding of Digital Eye Strain among the general population of Himachal Pradesh. A total of 400 participants took part in the study, with 283 (70.75%) residing in rural areas and 117 (29.25%) in urban areas (Table 1).

Table 1: Knowledge Regarding Digital Eye Strain Among Study Participants

Table 2: Knowledge Scores Towards Digital Eye Strain Among Study Participants

In the present study 33% (132) participants had very good knowledge (16-20 marks) towards Digital Eye Strain, 41% (164) had good knowledge (12-15 marks), 16.25% (65) had fair knowledge (8-11 marks) and 9.75% (39) having poor knowledge (<8 marks) (Table 2).

The findings of this comprehensive study shed light on the levels of awareness and knowledge regarding Digital Eye Strain (DES) among the diverse population of Himachal Pradesh. The results underscore the pressing need for targeted interventions to address the challenges posed by prolonged digital screen usage in this region.

The study revealed varying levels of awareness and knowledge among the participants. Notably, 33% of the respondents demonstrated a "very good" understanding of Digital Eye Strain, scoring between 16-20 marks, while 41% exhibited a "good" level of knowledge with scores ranging from 12-15. On the other hand, 16.25% had a "fair" understanding (8-11 marks) and 9.75% displayed a "poor" level of knowledge (less than 8 marks).

The diversity in knowledge levels suggests the existence of gaps in awareness that may contribute to the prevalence of Digital Eye Strain in Himachal Pradesh. The findings align with studies conducted in diverse cultural contexts, emphasizing the importance of targeted awareness campaigns to bridge the knowledge disparities [3,4].

Several specific areas of Digital Eye Strain awareness revealed knowledge gaps among the participants. For instance, strategies to prevent or reduce Digital Eye Strain garnered lower levels of awareness, with only 44.75% providing correct responses. Similarly, awareness regarding the effectiveness of blue light-blocking glasses and knowledge of ergonomic adjustments for minimizing Digital Eye Strain were relatively lower at 27.75% and 22.25%, respectively.

These identified gaps present opportunities for educational initiatives that specifically address these aspects, drawing on successful interventions outlined in studies conducted in Indian urban settings [4].

Considering the distinct cultural and environmental factors of Himachal Pradesh, the study aimed to explore the existence of local initiatives or resources promoting Digital Eye Wellness. The findings indicated that 27.75% of participants were aware of such initiatives, suggesting a need for the promotion and expansion of localized efforts to raise awareness and disseminate preventive measures.

Studies emphasizing region-specific insights, such as those conducted by Sheppard et al. [2] and Gupta et al. [3], highlight the importance of tailoring interventions to the unique needs of the local population.

An intriguing finding is that 40.25% of participants reported seeking professional advice or treatment for symptoms of Digital Eye Strain. This reflects an awareness of the potential severity of the condition and emphasizes the importance of incorporating healthcare professionals into comprehensive awareness campaigns.

Comparing the findings with relevant Indian studies, Gupta et al. [3], identified a similar knowledge gap in understanding Digital Eye Strain symptoms and preventive strategies among the urban population. Patel and Patel [4], reported comparable findings regarding the need for awareness programs to address Digital Eye Strain in an Indian urban setting. Additionally, studies by Marmamula et al. [6] and Srinivasan et al. [7], further emphasize the prevalence of digital eye-related issues in diverse Indian populations, reinforcing the need for region-specific interventions.

The present study contributes to the growing body of evidence by providing insights into the awareness landscape of Digital Eye Strain in a distinctive region like Himachal Pradesh. It aligns with the call for region-specific interventions to optimize the impact of awareness campaigns and preventive strategies [2,8].

In conclusion, this study offers a nuanced understanding of the awareness levels and knowledge regarding Digital Eye Strain in Himachal Pradesh. The identified knowledge gaps and regional nuances underscore the need for targeted interventions that consider the unique cultural and environmental factors of the region. By leveraging the insights gained from this study, public health initiatives can be tailored to effectively address the challenges posed by Digital Eye Strain, promoting digital wellness in Himachal Pradesh.

1. American Optometric Association. Computer Vision Syndrome, 2020.

2. Sheppard, A.L. et al. “Digital eye strain: Prevalence, measurement and amelioration.” BMJ Open Ophthalmology, vol. 4, no. 1, 2019, e000146.

3. Gupta, N. et al. “Prevalence and pattern of computer vision syndrome in Indian children.” International Journal of Research in Medical Sciences, vol. 6, no. 11, 2018, pp. 3788–3792.

4. Patel, D.V. and V.A. Patel. “Assessment of digital eye strain among computer users in an urban population of India.” Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 69, no. 2, 2021, pp. 459–465.

5. Smith, M.J. and L.S. Woon. “Digital eye strain: Prevalence, measurement and how to mitigate its impact.” Optometry in Practice, vol. 18, no. 1, 2017, pp. 1–10.

6. Marmamula, S. et al. “Spectacle coverage among urban schoolchildren with refractive error: Role of school eye health programs.” Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 67, no. 4, 2019, pp. 507–511.

7. Srinivasan, K. and R. Reddy. “Digital eye strain and its associated risk factors in computer users in a tertiary care eye hospital.” Indian Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 68, no. 3, 2020, pp. 493–497.

8. Reddy, S.C. et al. “Computer vision syndrome: A study of knowledge and practices in university students.” Nepal Journal of Ophthalmology, vol. 7, no. 14, 2015, pp. 161–168.