Assessing Knowledge about Computer Vision Syndrome Among Students of IT Department in Karakoram International University of Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan

Abstract

This study investigated the knowledge of Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) among IT students at Karakoram International University in Gilgit Baltistan, Pakistan. CVS is a growing concern, characterized by symptoms such as eye strain, headaches, blurred vision, and neck and shoulder pain, resulting from prolonged digital device use. The increasing reliance on digital devices in academic and daily life has made CVS a significant public health issue, with studies indicating a high prevalence of symptoms among students worldwide. The research problem addressed in this study is the lack of awareness and knowledge about CVS among university students in Gilgit. While CVS is widely prevalent, particularly among those with high digital screen usage, there is a significant gap in understanding its symptoms, risk factors, and preventive measures, especially in underserved regions like Gilgit. This lack of knowledge hinders the implementation of effective preventive strategies and contributes to the negative impact of CVS on students' well-being and academic performance. The study adopted a cross-sectional descriptive research design to assess the knowledge of CVS among IT students. A structured questionnaire, adapted from a globally recognized and validated study, was used for data collection. The questionnaire included sections on sociodemographic data and the assessment of knowledge and awareness of CVS. The participants' knowledge was evaluated using a 5-point Likert scale, and knowledge levels were classified as low, moderate, or high based on the scores obtained. Convenience sampling was used to select the participants. The findings of the study revealed the level of knowledge and awareness of CVS among IT students in Gilgit. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze the data, providing insights into the prevalence of CVS symptoms, knowledge of risk factors and preventive measures, and the influence of various factors on knowledge levels. For instance, 20% of students agreed and 14.8% strongly agreed that viewing a screen at less than arm’s length is a CVS risk; 26% agreed and 20.4% strongly agreed that prolonged computer use increases CVS risk; 18.4% agreed and 24% strongly agreed that inappropriate seating contributes to CVS; and 18.4% agreed and 16.3% strongly agreed that poor screen contrast increases risk while many others remained uncertain. The results highlighted the gaps in knowledge and the need for targeted interventions to improve awareness and promote preventive practices. The assessment of knowledge levels regarding the (CVS) revealed that none of the participants demonstrated a good level of knowledge (0.0%). A small proportion, 8.7% (n=17), exhibited a moderate level of knowledge, while the vast majority, 91.3% (n=179), had poor knowledge about the CVS .In conclusion, this study contributes to the understanding of CVS knowledge among university students in a semi-urban region, emphasizing the importance of addressing the identified gaps through educational interventions and awareness campaigns. The findings can inform the development of effective strategies to reduce the burden of CVS, promote digital health literacy, and improve the overall well-being and academic outcomes of students.