Computer Vision Syndrome Before and After the SARS-CoV-2 Pandemic: New-Symptom Onset and Workplace Setup of Visual Display Terminals

J Occup Environ Med. 2025 Nov 1;67(11):962-969. doi: 10.1097/JOM.0000000000003484. Epub 2025 Jul 11.

Abstract

Objective: This cross-sectional online survey investigated the associations between the setup of visual display terminals (VDT) and the new onset of symptoms associated with computer-vision syndrome (CVS) after the SARS-CoV-2 pandemic.

Methods: CVS was assessed by the standardized CVS-Q questionnaire. Items of VDT workplace setup at home were assessed individually as well as by a comprehensive VDT risk score. New onset and exacerbation of CVS symptoms were modeled using logistic regression, adjusting for various confounders.

Results: The overall CVS prevalence was estimated as 42.7%. Symptoms associated with oculomotor dysfunction were particularly affected. An inadequate home-office equipment, several variables related to VDT exposure, and an overall inadequate VDT score (odds ratio = 1.78; 95% conflict of interest 1.10-2.78) were associated with increased risks for CVS.

Conclusions: To define effective preventive measures will be a major challenge for future ophthalmological research.

Keywords: COVID-19; CVS; digital eye strain; mobile work; remote work; telework; working from home.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • COVID-19* / epidemiology
  • Computer Terminals*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Occupational Diseases* / epidemiology
  • Occupational Diseases* / etiology
  • Pandemics
  • Prevalence
  • SARS-CoV-2
  • Surveys and Questionnaires
  • Syndrome
  • Vision Disorders* / epidemiology
  • Vision Disorders* / etiology
  • Workplace