Ocular health in radiologists: A comprehensive study evaluating computer vision syndrome amongst South African radiologists

Abstract

Ocular health in radiologists: A comprehensive study evaluating computer vision syndrome amongst South African radiologists. Background Computer vision syndrome is a common problem amongst regular computer users. With a large portion of workflow in radiology making use of Picture Archiving and Communicating Systems (PACS), radiologists are at risk for exposure to potential ocular hazards. Objectives The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of computer vision syndrome amongst South African radiologists as well as raise awareness of the matter and propose implementable solutions. Methods An electronic cross-sectional observational study of South African radiologists using a self administered survey, was conducted from January 2025 to February 2025. Results 207 complete responses were received with a response rate of 19.4%. The prevalence of a high computer vision syndrome (CVS) score (>6) was 63% (95% CI 56% - 69%). There was a higher proportion of females among those with a high CVS score compared to those with a low CVS score (60% vs 39%, p = 0.004). Eyewear was common, with only 28% of the group with a high CVS score not making use of them. The most common symptoms of CVS in this cohort were headache (63%), sensitivity to light (60%), worsening vision (57%), dryness (54%) and burning (56%). The least common symptoms of CVS in this cohort were double vision (12%) and coloured haloes (18%). The mean score in those without CVS was 2, while the mean score in those with CVS was 16. Factors found to be associated with having a high CVS score on multivariate analysis were subspecialists in musculoskeletal (p = 0.015), respondents who wear predominantly spectacles (no blue light filter) (p = 0.013), respondents who use eye drops (p < 0.001) and those respondents who had worsened eyesight (p < 0.001).