Eye care when using video display terminals

DSC Lam, W Cheuk, ATS Leung, DSP Fan, HM Cheng, SJ Chew
Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Prince of Wales Hospital, Shatin, Hong Kong

OBJECTIVE. To examine the scientific data in the literature regarding eye problems and possible damage during the use of computer video display terminals.

DATA SOURCES. Medline and non-Medline literature search and personal experience.

STUDY SELECTION. Studies that provided evidence-based information about eye damage and eye care during the use of video display terminals were selected.

DATA EXTRACTION. Data were extracted independently by multiple observers.

DATA SYNTHESIS. Most studies have shown that the levels of ionizing and non-ionizing radiation that are emitted by video display terminals are not harmful to the human eye. Eye complaints associated with the use of video display terminals include the McCollough effect, accommodative spasm, �dry eyes�, and eye strain. Ergonomic considerations and good visual hygiene can help alleviate symtpoms.

CONCLUSION. There is currently no convincing evidence that shows that using video display terminals is harmful to the eye.

Hong Kong Med J 1999;5:255-7

Key words: Computer terminals; Electromagnetic fields; Eye diseases/etiology; Occupational diseases