Prevalence of ocular symptoms and signs among professional computer users in Isfahan, Iran

BACKGROUND: This study was undertaken to detect the prevalence of ocular symptoms and signs in professional video display users (VDUs) and non-users in Isfahan. METHODS: This is a cross-sectional descriptive case-control study. The VDUs group was selected from among employees working with computer and the control group was selected from among employees not working with computer. Fifty seven VDUs (34 male & 23 female with mean age of 30.7 +/- 6.8) and 56 employees in the control group (25 male & 31 female, mean age of 27.6 +/- 7.2) were evaluated. Complete ocular examination was done for both groups. RESULTS: Among VDUs, 45 cases (79%) had burning eyes and tearing, 39 cases (66%) had dry eye, 37 cases (65%) had asthenopia, and 47 cases (82.5%) had musculoskeletal pain but these values for the control group were 24 (42.8%), 18 (32.2%), 22(39.3%) and 15 (26.8%) respectively and the difference was statistically significant (p = 0.037, p = 0.023, p = 0.044, p = 0.013). Schirmer's test was positive in 22 VDUs (38.5%) vs. 6 (10.7%) of control group (p = 0.012). There was heterophoria in 19 VDUs (33.3%) vs. 3 controls (5.4%) (p = 0.032). CONCLUSION: Eye burning and tearing, dry eye, asthenopia and musculoskeletal problems were obviously more common in VDUs. Considering the extensive use of computers at home and work, a plan is required to detect dangers and provide appropriate solutions.