Digital screen exposure, lifestyle behaviors, and headache complaints among healthcare students: A multinational study from the MENA region

Abstract

Aim To examine the association between digital screen exposure patterns, lifestyle behaviors, and headache complaints among healthcare students across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Methods This multinational cross-sectional study was conducted between November 2024 and April 2025 among 2904 healthcare students from 11 MENA countries. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered online questionnaire assessing sociodemographic characteristics, digital screen use patterns, environmental factors, lifestyle behaviors, and self-reported headache occurring during or shortly after screen exposure. Univariable analyses were performed to explore associations, followed by multivariable logistic regression to identify independent factors associated with headache occurrence. Results Headache during or immediately following digital screen exposure was reported by 78.6% of participants. Prolonged daily screen use (particularly ≥7 h/day) and continuous screen use without breaks for more than two hours were significantly associated with headache complaints (p < 0.001). Frequent caffeine consumption during screen use, inadequate hydration, variable sleep duration, and higher perceived stress levels were also significantly associated with headache occurrence. Female sex and a family history of migraine were additionally associated with increased likelihood of reporting headache with screen use. In multivariable analysis, prolonged screen duration and absence of regular breaks remained independently associated with headache after adjustment for relevant demographic and lifestyle factors. Conclusion Headache complaints related to digital screen exposure were highly prevalent among healthcare students across the MENA region. Prolonged and uninterrupted screen use, along with modifiable lifestyle behaviors, were significantly associated with headache occurrence. Although causality cannot be established, these findings underscore the importance of preventive awareness, ergonomic education, and behavioral interventions within academic institutions. Longitudinal studies are warranted to clarify temporal relationships and evaluate targeted prevention strategies.