Association Between Screen Time Duration and the Incidence of Dry Eye Syndrome Among Educational Staff at Nusa Cendana University

Background: The rising intensity of digital device use in daily activities contributes to prolonged screen time, which may disrupt tear film stability through reduced blink frequency and increased evaporation. Educational staff represent a high-risk group due to the sedentary nature of their work and prolonged screen exposure in air-conditioned environments that can exacerbate ocular surface disturbances.

Objective: To assess the association between screen time duration and the occurrence of Dry Eye Syndrome (DES) among educational staff at the University of Nusa Cendana.

Methods: This analytical observational study with a cross-sectional design was conducted from September to October 2025. A total of 54 respondents were selected using cluster random sampling. Screen time duration was measured using the Screen Time Questionnaire (STQ), while DES symptoms were evaluated using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI). Correlation analysis was performed using the Spearman Rank test.

Results: Most respondents reported a moderate level of screen time exposure (46.3%) and normal ocular status based on OSDI (50%). However, 24.1% of respondents were identified as having severe DES. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant positive correlation of moderate strength between screen time duration and DES severity (p = 0.003; r = 0.400). Respondents with high and very high screen time exposure tended to exhibit more severe symptomatic manifestations.

Conclusion: Screen time duration is significantly associated with the severity of Dry Eye Syndrome among educational staff. Interventions such as scheduled visual breaks and ergonomic adjustments in the workplace are recommended to reduce the risk of ocular surface disorders.