Eye Health Status among Support Personnel in a Public University

Abstract

The eyes are essential organs for vision and play a vital role in daily life. Currently, the use of computers and smartphones for work and various activities has continuously increased, particularly among working-age individuals. Prolonged use of these devices may adversely affect visual function and overall ocular health. This descriptive correlational study aimed to 1) explore eye health problems; and 2) examine the relation among age, convergence ability, and the duration of computer and smartphone use. The participants consisted of 83 supporting staff from a public university. The research instruments included: 1) eye function assessments (visual acuity measurement, ocular motility examination, and convergence ability testing), 2) an eye health problem questionnaire, and 3) anterior segment examination. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson’s correlation coefficient. The results revealed that 57.83% of participants had normal visual acuity, while 42.17% had visual impairment. Convergence ability was greater than 7 cm, found in 21.68% of participants. The most common eye health problem was dry eye. The average duration of computer and smartphone use was 7.46 hours per day (SD=3.64). Age was significantly negatively correlated with device use duration at a low level (r =-.275, p<.05), whereas convergence ability showed a moderate positive correlation with device use duration (r=.497, p<.001). Therefore, supporting staff should be provided with guidance on proper visual care, including taking regular breaks from computer and smartphone use every 20 minutes by looking at an object 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds, along with periodic eye exercises. In addition, regular eye examinations are recommended to enable early risk assessment and prevent future ocular disease.