THE PREVALENCE OF DRY EYE DISEASE IN ADOLESCENTS ASSOCIATED WITH PROLONGED USE OF SMART PHONES

Abstract

Dry eye disease (DED) is defined according to TFOS DEWS II workshop as a multifactorial disease affecting the ocular surface and characterized by a loss of homeostasis of the tear film, accompanied by ocular symptoms, in which tear film instability and hyperosmolarity, ocular surface inflammation and damage, and neurosensory abnormalities play etiological roles.Visual display terminals (VDTs) arebecoming a growing concern as VDT usersfrequently report symptoms such as eye discomfort, dryness, redness, light sensitivity, and tearing, along with headaches, neck and back pain, and reduced attention which are collectively referred to as Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS). COVID-19 pandemic has increased screen time, so the full impact-especially on dry eye disease (DED)—has yet to emerge. DED related to VDT use has been linked to reduced productivityin students. However, the prevalence of DED related to VDT use varies widely across studies.Aim:The aim of this article is to estimate the prevalence of dry eye disease (DED) among subjects (aged 12 to 16 years) who use smartphones for at least three hours per day. By focusing on a younger population without significant comorbidities or preexisting ocular conditions, the research seeks to isolate smartphone use as a key factor influencing ocular surface health and tear film stability. A cross-sectional study was conducted to evaluate the excessive use of smart phones.