Nearly 80% of Americans with Digital Eye Strain Use Multiple Screens

LAS VEGAS, Jan. 6, 2016 /PRNewswire/ -- Nearly eight of every 10 Americans who suffer from digital eye strain (DES) use two or more devices simultaneously, according to a nationwide survey released today at the International Consumer Electronics Show.  The report by The Vision Council, Eyes Overexposed: Digital Device Dilemma, is based on a survey of more than 10,000 adults. It finds that 65 percent of Americans experience symptoms of digital eye strain, such as dry, irritated eyes, blurred vision, neck and back pain and headaches.

A combination of factors foster the onset of digital eye strain, including the proximity of the screen, the frequency and duration of use and the degree of exposure to blue light emitted by video screens.

The report finds device use differs among generations.

• A majority of parents (70 percent) who let children use devices for three or more hours a day report being concerned about the impact of digital devices on developing eyes.
• Nearly nine of 10 Millennials (87 percent) in their 20s use two or more devices simultaneously and 73 percent report symptoms of DES.
• Nearly 7 in 10 (67 percent) people in their 30s spend five or more hours each day on digital devices, contributing to DES reported by 69 percent.
• As adults in their 40s face challenges trying to focus their eyesight at varying distances and moving between devices, 66 percent experience DES.
• Nearly 65 percent of adults in their 50s and 53 percent of people 60 and older experience symptoms of DES.

Solutions exist to help alleviate DES and prevent potential long-term effects on vision, including computer eyewear, which have lenses constructed specifically for the mid-distance range at which users typically view a digital screen. The lenses are customized to reduce blurriness, decrease brightness, block blue light, and minimize glare while working in front of a screen—or multiple screens.

Adults and children should receive regular comprehensive eye exams to help preserve vision and identify potential eye health issues. Patients should discuss their digital device habits with their eye care provider to determine the best solutions for their lifestyle.

To view the report, visit www.thevisioncouncil.org/DES.

SOURCE The Vision Council

Related Links

http://www.thevisioncouncil.org