Abstract:

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence of visual fatigue and its determining factors among 169 computer users at Faculty of Medicine, Prince of Songkla University. The data on visual fatigue and its determinants were collected using an interview questionnaire and a flicker fusion instrument (flicker fusion model 12021). Other measurements included visiometry by stereo optical industrial vision tester; noise, light, and relative humidity by standard industrial hygiene instruments.

The results revealed that the prevalence of visual fatigue as assessed through the questionnaire, critical flicker fusion instrument, and both instruments were 77.5%, 49.7% and 40.8% respectively. Multiple regression analysis indicated that the predictive factors of visual fatigue were inappropriate distance between eyes and computer screen, duration of working with computer of more than 2 hours and poor refresh rate (shown as flickering of letters or images on computer screen).

The evidence from this study suggested that not working continuously with a computer for more than two hours, ensuring distance between eyes and monitor of between 50-70 centimeters and adjusting the computer to reduce flickering of letters or images on the computer screen might prevent visual fatigue among computer users.