Effects of Smart Phone Overuse on Eye and Behavior

Abstract

Aim: To determine the frequency of ocular health issues, such as, digital eye strain, dry eyes, blurring of vision, and behavioral issues among individuals who report excessive smartphone use.

Study design: Cross-sectional study.

Duration and Settings of the study: Department of Ophthalmology of Medical Teaching Institution Khyber Teaching Hospital (MTI-KTH) from April 1, 2023, to September 30, 2023.

Methods: A total of  275 participants were enrolled using a convenience sampling technique. Participants underwent assessments related to eye health and behavioral impacts associated with smartphone overuse. Eye health effects included ocular symptoms such as eye strain assessed through self-report, dryness or watering of eyes blurring of vision, sudden blackouts, twitching of eyelids, headaches. Behavior issues included self-blame for overusing smartphone, irritability, strain, concentration issues and psychological dependency and screen time. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS version 23.

Results: Out of 275 patients 58.45% were children. The mean age of the participants was 12 ±1.5 years, Male children 32.7% appeared to be more affected by harmful eye complaints and behavioral issues than their female counterparts 25.4%. In adult patients there was evidence of mobile phone over use and addiction‑like behavior higher in female 23.63% than male 18.18 %. In this study there was no statistically significant association between smart phone overuse (SMO) and blurring (p = 0.674) or decrease in vision (p = 0.212) on contrast there was statistically significant (p < 0.005) association between SMO and anxiety and depression.

Conclusion: Smart phone overuse poses a significant challenge to eye health and behavior among Eye OPD patients. The study emphasizes the need for comprehensive understanding and intervention strategies to address this growing issue in Pakistani society.