A Systematic Review of Intraocular Pressure Changes Associated with Digital Device Use: Insights from Recent Studies
Ali Arman1 , Mojtaba Heydari2 *, Reza Razeghinejad3
- Student Research Committee, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences٫ Shiraz, Iran
- Poostchi Ophthalmology Research Center, Department of Ophthalmology, School of Medicine, Shiraz University of Medical Sciences, Shiraz, Iran
- Wills Eye Institute, Philadelphia, Pa., USA
Abstract: Digital devices such as smartphones, laptops, and tablets have become one of the inseparable parts of our lives. the effect of using the mentioned instruments has raised concerns about its effect on intraocular pressure. both in the way of prevention and also due to management and stopping the progression.
This systematic review aims to provide a comprehensive overview of studies investigating intraocular pressure (IOP) changes during activities involving digital device use, such as reading or writing on smartphones, laptops, and computers. The review synthesizes findings from diverse populations, designs, and methodologies to identify patterns and factors influencing IOP fluctuations.
Methods: A systematic literature search, including databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and Embase, was conducted up to December 2023 using keywords related to intraocular pressure and digital device use. Eligibility criteria included English-language, human-focused, original research articles exploring intraocular pressure changes during activities involving smartphones, computers, or laptops. Two independent reviewers screened titles and abstracts, with conflicts resolved through discussion or third-party consultation. Full-text articles meeting eligibility criteria were included for data extraction.
Results: The studies, conducted in Korea, China, and India, employed various designs including prospective case series, prospective studies, randomized controlled trials (RCT), and population-based cross-sectional studies. The total sample size across studies ranged from 24 to 8,211 participants, encompassing healthy individuals and those with glaucoma. Findings from the included studies revealed heterogeneous results of IOP change during activities such as reading or writing on smartphones, computers, and laptops. Notable variations were observed in IOP changes based on the type of digital device, lighting conditions, body position, and the nature of the visual task. Additionally, factors such as age, health condition (glaucoma or healthy), and specific instrument used for measurement influenced the magnitude and speed of IOP changes.
Conclusion: The systematic review underscores the association between digital device use and intraocular pressure changes, with implications for both healthy individuals and those with glaucoma. The synthesis of diverse studies highlights the need for further research to explore the mechanisms underlying IOP fluctuations and to develop guidelines for mitigating potential risks associated with prolonged digital device use, especially in vulnerable populations.
