Interventions for digital eye strain in adolescents: a structured review with supporting evidence from young adult populations.

OBJECTIVE

To review and synthesize interventions for digital eye strain in adolescents, while incorporating evidence from young adult populations to address gaps in the literature.

BACKGROUND

Digital eye strain (DES) is increasingly prevalent among adolescents due to the growing use of digital devices. However, evidence regarding effective interventions specifically targeting this population remains limited.

METHODS

A structured review of studies evaluating interventions for DES was conducted. Adolescents were defined as individuals under 18 years of age. Due to the paucity of adolescent-only studies, studies involving young adults (≥18 years) were also included where relevant. Interventions were categorized into optical, behavioral/ergonomic, pharmacological, nutritional, and educational approaches. Data on study design, population characteristics, and outcomes were extracted and summarized.

RESULTS

Few studies exclusively investigated adolescents, with most evidence derived from young adult populations or mixed-age cohorts. Interventions demonstrating benefit included behavioral and ergonomic strategies (e.g., optimized viewing distance, break schedules), ocular surface management (e.g., artificial tears), and selected optical or nutritional approaches. Blue-light filtering interventions generally showed limited or no benefit. Adolescent-specific studies, although scarce, indicated that both behavioral and nutritional interventions may reduce DES symptoms.

CONCLUSION

There is a clear paucity of intervention studies targeting adolescents with digital eye strain. Evidence from young adult populations suggests that ergonomic and ocular surface-focused strategies may have relevance for adolescents; however, direct evidence in adolescent populations remains limited and age-specific studies are needed before definitive recommendations can be made.