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The Science Behind the Device: 21/04/2011
Computer vision syndrome (CVS) describes a rapidly growing eye related
repetitive strain disorder relating to the use of computer screens, affecting an
estimated 90% of workers using computers for more than three hours a day
(1)(2). CVS symptoms are dryness, soreness, irritation and redness of the
eyes, headaches, blurred vision, migraines and eye strain while using a
computer screen or a visual display unit (VDU).
It is believed that the major contributor to CVS symptoms by far appears to be
dry eye (2). In the literature, there is evidence supporting the notion that VDU
use decreases the blink rate. In an investigation, the blink rate was measured
using noninvasive techniques, in relation to VDU use. In normal healthy
subjects, the results show an average 5-fold drop in blink rate during VDU
use(3). In studies, the decrease in blinking frequency was shown to be an
essential cause of dry eye symptoms (4). Blinking not only has the purpose of
smoothing the tear film ("windshield effect"), but also affects the composition
and stability of the different layers of tears (4).
A recent study looked at therapeutic approaches for managing the reduced blinking during computer work. The research was cited
in a European Eye Journal. The study showed that a schematic visual representation of a blink presented on a computer screen
can increase the blink rate of individuals by 139% (5).
A recent paper published by the University of Queensland, Australia discussed a new view that has emerged, one that focuses on
the management rather than the elimination of work related CVS issues that are prevalent among eWorkers (6).
The highly innovative ‘Blinknow” device helps control the work conditions and forms a part of the multifaceted interventions
designed to decrease discomfort and reduce the associated economic burden from CVS.
KEY SCIENTIFIC REFERENCES
1) A Aaras, G Horgen and O Ro. Work with visual display unit:
Health consequences. International Journal of Human
Computer Interaction 12 (2000), 107-134.
2) C Blehm, S Vishnu, A Khattak, S Mitra and RW Yee.
Computer vision syndrome: A Review, Survey of
Ophthalmology 50 (2005), 253-262.
3) S Patel, R Henderson, L Bradley, B Galloway, L Hunter. Effect
of visual display unit use on blink rate and tear stability.
Optometry and Vision Science 68(1991), 888-92.
4) F Ziemssen, N Freudenthaler, K Regnery , T Schlote. Blinking
activity during visual display terminal work. Part 1: Ocular
discomfort and pathophysiological principles. Ophthalmologe
102(2005): 805-11.
5) F Ziemssen, N Freudenthaler, K Regnery , T Schlote. Blinking
activity during visual display terminal work. 2: reduced
blinking and therapeutic approaches. Ophthalmologe
102(2005): 895-901.
6) E Kirk, J Strong. Management of eWork health issues: A new
perspective on an old problem. Work 2010, 35: 173-181.