Prevalence and Risk Factors for Digital Eye Strain and Musculoskeletal Disorders among Financial Workforce of Brunei Darussalam.

Abstract

Background: The increased use of digital devices during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted its impact on the visual and musculoskeletal systems. This study aims to determine the combined prevalence and symptoms of digital-eyestrain and related musculoskeletal disorders and its contributing risk factors. Methods: A one-year cross-sectional study was conducted during the COVID-19 pandemic among computer-users in financial institutions in Brunei. A self-administered questionnaire was distributed via email, and non-responders reminded. Descriptive statistics and simple proportions were used to determine the sociodemographic factors, usage, prevalence, and digital device related symptoms. Chi-square tests and multiple logistic regression were applied to determine the associated risk factors. Results: Total number of participants was 281 (mean age 36.2 ± 8.3 years, 67.3% females and 62.6% spending?>5 hours daily on digital screens without breaks). The prevalence of combined digital-eyestrain and related musculoskeletal disorders was 63.8%. The most common symptoms were pain, stiffness, numbness, or tingling sensation in the shoulder (87.5%), neck (86.3%), and back (85.4%), followed by headache (83.1%), itchy eyes (74.8%), increased light sensitivity (72.5%), and watery eyes (70.7%). Daily computer use of?>5 hours without breaks, independently and significantly increased the risk of developing digital-eyestrain and related musculoskeletal disorders over two-fold (OR = 2.38, 95%CI:1.01,5.66). Only 18.5% of the participants had regular eye examinations and 58.7% did not consult a doctor (p<0.01) despite experiencing problems. Conclusion: Digital-eyestrain and related musculoskeletal disorders are highly prevalent. Efforts made to manage these problems can prevent permanent damage. Mobility breaks at work, regular eye checkups and proper workplace ergonomics are recommended.