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. 2025 Feb 5:13:1524173.
doi: 10.3389/fpubh.2025.1524173. eCollection 2025.

Assessment of computer vision syndrome and associated factors among employees of Ethio-telecom in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Natnael Gizachew  1 , Teferi Abegaz  2 , Tenaw Demis  3 , Melese Gashaw  1 , Lidetu Demoze  4
Affiliations

Assessment of computer vision syndrome and associated factors among employees of Ethio-telecom in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Natnael Gizachew et al. Front Public Health. .

Abstract

Background: Computer vision syndrome refers to a range of eye and vision-related problems which may result from extended use of digital devices such as computers. It is a public health problem, affecting more than 70% of all computer users. In developing countries like Ethiopia, there is scarcity of studies on computer vision syndrome, particularly in the telecom industry making evidence-based interventions difficult. Hence, the study aims to identify the determinants and the prevalence of computer vision syndrome among Ethio telecom workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of CVS and identify its factors among Ethio telecom workers in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia.

Methods: Institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among Ethio telecom employees in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from March to June 2023. A total of 497 individuals participated in the study. Data were collected using an interviewer- administered questionnaire through Kobo Toolbox, observational checklist and an illuminance measuring instrument. The data were transferred to Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26 for analysis. Multivariable logistic regression was performed to assess the association and control for potential confounders.

Results: The prevalence of CVS among Ethio telecom workers was 68.8% (95% CI: 64.5-72.9). Significant associations were observed with viewing distance <50 cm (AOR: 2.32, 95% CI: 1.24-4.33), improper task illumination (AOR: 1.78, 95% CI: 1.09-2.91), habit of taking breaks (AOR: 0.439, 95% CI: 0.281-0.686), and adjustment of brightness and contrast (AOR: 0.39, 95% CI: 0.22-0.68).

Conclusion: More than two-thirds of Ethio telecom workers in Addis Ababa suffer from CVS, with significant influences from viewing distance, task illumination, breaks, and monitor settings. These findings underscore the need for interventions to enhance working conditions and reduce CVS prevalence among computer users.

Keywords: Addis Ababa; Ethio telecom workers; Ethiopia; computer vision syndrome; determinants; prevalence; task illumination; viewing distance.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that the research was conducted in the absence of any commercial or financial relationships that could be construed as a potential conflict of interest.

Figures

Figure 1
Figure 1
Study area map (Addis Ababa, Ethiopia).
Figure 2
Figure 2
Distribution of study participants’ sitting position to the position of windows of computer user Ethio telecom workers, 2023.
Figure 3
Figure 3
Prevalence of symptoms among computer user Ethio telecom workers in Addis Ababa, 2023.
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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