Awareness and Practices Regarding the Use of Digital Devices among Health-related Populations

Abstract Aim: We aimed to determine the awareness and practices regarding the use of digital devices (DD) among health-related populations. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. The study population included faculty, students, and staff of a medical college. Informed consent was taken. Questions on ergonomic practices while using DD and ocular discomfort were asked. P < 0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Among 452 participants, 385 (85.2%) were aged < 30 years. Males included 208 (46%) of the participants. A total of 173 (38.7%) follow 6-monthly eye checkups, 383 (84.7%) visit an ophthalmologist for their eye examination, and only 329 (72.8%) use refractive correction or protective glasses. Digital eye strain (DES) prevalence was 75.2%. Symptoms of DES were found to be musculoskeletal > ocular > accommodative. DES was associated with > 5 years of DD use ( P < 0.028), not using refractive correction ( P < 0.001), position ( P < 0.033), dull screen illuminations ( P < 0.0177), decreased image clarity after prolonged use ( P < 0.0001), and a long frequency of breaks ( P < 0.001). Distance from the eye to DD was not statistically associated with DES ( P = 0.953), but its correlation was inversely related. The most common gadget used was mobile phone 399 (88.2%), and the interface used was touch screen 408 (90.3%). A total of 344 (76.1%) feel that digital screens affect their life, and 375 (83%) were willing to decrease screen timing. Also, 251 (55.5%) know about the 20–20–20 rule. Conclusions: Excessive use of DD leads to various health issues among health-related populations. Awareness and ergonomics practices would improve theirs as well as others’ health.