Vision Council Publishes 2015 Report on Digital Eye Strain

Digital devices are a staple for the vast majority of the U.S. population. Many feel they offer greater freedom to live and work, and help them stay connected and share information. But overexposure to digital devices can have a detrimental effect on our visual health.

Each year, The Vision Council conducts a survey of digital device use and reports on the effects to the U.S. population. The group has released its 2015 report, which shows that 69% of American adults use a smartphone daily, as compared to only 45% in 2012. Meanwhile, 42.5% use a tablet or e-reader, as compared to 26% in 2012.

Symptoms of digital eye strain include:

• red, dry or irritated eyes;
• blurred vision;
• eye fatigue;
• back and neck pain;
• headaches.

Many factors contribute to digital eye strain:

• small print and pixelated images cause eyes to strain in order to focus;
• holding devices at the wrong angle or too far from the eyes;
• blue light (high-energy visible light) from digital devices, which increases eye strain more than other colors;
• corrective lenses that may not be intended for viewing at mid-distance range

Download the “Hindsight is 20/20/20” report for more information, and view an infographic summarizing the report