Difference in prevalence of digital eye strain among students using online e-learning during COVID-19 pandemic in western of Saudi Arabia

Background: Due to the increased use of digital devices and advanced technology in the last year, digital eye strain is a significant health problem leading to serious complications if it is not well managed. Our study surveyed students from schools and universities in western Saudi Arabia. We compared the prevalence and associated factors of DES among students. Methodology: A survey-based study was carried out among students in western schools and Umm Al-Qura University between September 2021 and October 2021. Results: The total student's number in the current study was 347. Their mean age was 1.66 +/- 0.47 years. Overall, 198 (57.1%) participants were males, and 149 (42.9%) were females. Furthermore, 176 (50.7%) participants were university students, while 171 (49.3%) were school students. Conclusions: out of DES symptoms; headache, blurred vision, and shoulders pain shows a significant association correlated with participants' gender (P-values, 0.000, 0.002, and 0.000, respectively), while the only symptom of eye dryness shows significant association associated with participants' educational level (P-values, 0.001).