Digital Eye Strain Among Medical Students in Gaza Universities During the War in Gaza: A Cross-Section Study
Date
2025-06-01
Authors
Khalil Mostafa Alinaby
Salah Alaloul
Ismail Alqoqa
Mohammed Kamel
Jihen Brour
Mohammed Eleyan
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Deanship of Research - Al-Quds University
Abstract
Background: Digital Eye Strain (DES), also called Computer Vision Syndrome(CVS), refers to a group of ocular and extra ocular symptoms resulting from prolonged use of digital devices. Medical students have become increasingly dependent on screens, heightening their risk of DES. In conflict-affected regions such as the Gaza Strip, this reliance is not a matter of choice but a necessity. Medical students in Gaza are forced to engage in uninterrupted and prolonged screen use under suboptimal conditions marked by poor lighting, unstable power supply, and inadequate ergonomic setups, These compounded stressors significantly increase the risk and severity of DES symptoms. Study Objectives: This study aimed to determine the prevalence of Digital Eye Strain (DES) and identify associated risk factors among undergraduate medical students during the war in Gaza.