Effects Of Using Screen-Based Devices and the Prevalence of Screen Device-Induced Vision Syndrome in the Faculty Of Medicine, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka

Research Article

Abstract

The use of smartphones and other screen-based devices has increased markedly in recent years, particularly among young adults. This trend has raised concerns regarding “problematic smartphone use,” which shares features with behavioral addiction. Prolonged exposure to digital screens is associated with a range of health issues, including computer vision syndrome (CVS), headaches, musculoskeletal pain, and peripheral numbness. Despite these concerns, digital devices remain indispensable in modern life, especially in medical education, where they facilitate rapid access to information and enhance learning efficiency.
This descriptive cross-sectional study assessed screen-based device usage among medical students at the Faculty of Medicine, Wayamba University of Sri Lanka. A total of 313 students from all academic years were selected using stratified sampling. Data were collected through self-administered questionnaires distributed in Sinhala, Tamil, and English via Google Forms over two months. Responses were analyzed using SPSS version 28. Ethical approval was obtained from the Faculty’s Ethical Review Committee. The mean age of participants was 23.7 ± 1.8 years; 46.6% wore spectacles, and 5.1% were on medication for psychological conditions. WhatsApp (98.5%) and YouTube (91.9%) were the most commonly used platforms. Average daily screen time was 603 minutes (10.05 hours), comprising smartphones (268.8 minutes), tablets (256.9 minutes), and computers (115.1 minutes). Most students (94.9%) used devices for academic purposes, while 82.4% used them for social interaction.
Overall, 32.26 % were classified as heavy users (mean 881 minutes/day), and 43.45 % as light users (mean 398 minutes/day). Increased usage was largely attributed to academic demands. Symptoms of CVS were reported, including headaches (57%) and back pain (14.2%), associated with prolonged use and poor posture.

Conclusion: The findings highlight substantial screen exposure among medical students and underscore the need for awareness and preventive strategies to mitigate associated health risks.