Prevalence and Risk Factors of Dry Eye Disease in Association with the Increase Use of Electronic Devices among University Students

Background: The widespread use of electronic devices has significantly impacted ocular health, particularly increasing the prevalence of Dry Eye Disease (DED). University students, due to their extensive screen exposure for academic and recreational activities, are at high risk of developing DED. Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of DED among university students and to assess the association between screen time habits, digital device usage, and environmental factors with DED symptoms. Methodology: An analytical cross-sectional study was conducted among 360 students of The University of Lahore. The sample size was calculated using Raosoft software (Raosoft, Inc., Seattle, WA), based on an estimated student population of 5,500. Data collection occurred between August 2023 and January 2024 via an online questionnaire. Questionnaire comprised three sections covering general information, digital device usage patterns and the Validated Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire. DED severity was assessed by calculating OSDI scores, which were then established according to cut off points. Data were analyzed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26. Results: The overall prevalence of DED symptoms was 68.6%, while 31.4% of students did not exhibit symptoms. Based on the OSDI criteria, 18.1% of students had mild DED symptoms, 32.8% had moderate symptoms, and 41.4% had severe symptoms. DED symptoms were significantly (p ≤ 0.05) associated with age, screen time, using digital devices before bed, wearing glasses while using digital devices, years of using digital devices, taking breaks, adjusting screen brightness, and room lighting while using screens. Conclusion: The study highlighted a high prevalence of DED symptoms among university students, with screen time habits, nighttime device use, and poor ergonomic practices as key contributing factors. Computer Science students were at a higher risk due to prolonged screen exposure. Key Words: Dry Eye Disease (DED), Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), Digital Eye Strain (DES), Ergonomics, Ocular Health