Computer vision syndrome and predictors among computer users in Ethiopia: a systematic review and meta-analysis

Abstract

Background: A computer is one of the most widely used office tools. The leading occupational health problem of the twenty-first century is computer vision syndrome (CVS). Research findings across Ethiopia on the magnitude and predictors of CVS among computer users are highly variable and inconsistent. Therefore, this study aimed to estimate the overall prevalence of CVS and its predictors among computer users in Ethiopia.

Methods: We searched articles in all databases and other sources. Cochrane Q test statistics and I² tests were used. A random-effect meta-analysis model was used. In addition, the association between risk factors and CVS among computer users was examined.

Results: Eight eligible studies were included. The pooled prevalence of CVS among computer users in Ethiopia was 73.21% (95% CI 70.32-76.11). Sub-group analysis by profession has shown that the highest prevalence of CVS was observed in bank employees [73.76% (95% CI 70.40-77.13)]. The most common reported symptoms of CVS were blurred vision (34.26%; 95% CI 22.08, 46.43). The previous history of eye disease (95% CI 2.30, 5.47), inappropriate sitting position (95% CI 1.76, 3.22), the frequent use of a computer (95% CI 2.04, 3.60), and using eyeglass/spectacles (95% CI 1.10, 3.91) were significantly associated with CVS among computer users in Ethiopia.

Conclusions: According to this study, computer vision syndrome was high among computer users in Ethiopia. Computer vision syndrome (CVS) was significantly associated with a previous history of eye disease, inappropriate sitting position, frequent use of a computer, and the use of spectacles. Based on the findings, it is suggested that efforts be made to optimize computer exposure time. It is also worth noting that employees should be properly seated when using a computer. Furthermore, people with vision problems should be extra cautious when using a computer. Finally, community awareness of the safety precautions that can be taken to reduce CVS is critical.

Keywords: Bankers; CVS; Computer vision syndrome; Employees; Meta-analysis and Ethiopia; Secretaries; System review.

Fig. 1

Flow diagram describing the selection of studies for the systematic review and meta-analysis of prevalence and associated factors of computer vision syndrome and associated factors among computer users in Ethiopia (showing how articles were identified, screened, and included in the studies), 2021

Fig. 2

Forest plot of the pooled prevalence of computer vision syndrome among computer users in Ethiopia, 2021

Fig. 3

Forest plot of the Subgroup analysis of the prevalence of computer vision syndrome in different professions in Ethiopia, 2021

Fig. 4

Forest plot depicting the pooled prevalence of symptoms of computer vision syndrome among computer users; (A Blurred vision, B Eyes Fatigue, C Watery eyes, D Burning sensation, E Headache, F Redness of the eyes, G Eyestrain, H Eye Irritation, I Dry eye, J Double vision) in Ethiopia, 2021

Fig. 4

Forest plot depicting the pooled prevalence of symptoms of computer vision syndrome among computer users; (A Blurred vision, B Eyes Fatigue, C Watery eyes, D Burning sensation, E Headache, F Redness of the eyes, G Eyestrain, H Eye Irritation, I Dry eye, J Double vision) in Ethiopia, 2021

Fig. 5

Forest plot depicting pooled odds ratio (log scale) of the associations between prevalence of computer vision syndrome and its predictors (A Previous history of eye disease, B Using eyeglass/spectacles, C Inappropriate sitting position, D Frequent use of the computer) in Ethiopia, 2021