Objective:

To analyze changes in the frequency and incidence of dry eye disease (DED) and screen exposure times during the onset of online courses; moreover, compare these changes between sexes. Secondarily, correlate online courses screen exposure times with the severity of DED symptoms.

Method:

Four identical surveys, each containing the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) which quantifies DED symptom severity, and questions which categorized screen exposure times, were applied throughout 6 weeks. University students who had transitioned from face-to-face courses to online platforms were included.

Results:

DED frequency among the 97 subjects (54 women, 43 men) peaked on week 4 (82.47%). OSDI scores significantly increased throughout the study (p < 0.0001), from baseline (27.01 ± 17.55) to week 6 (37.17 ± 24.64), reflecting symptom worsening along an incidence of 8.5%. This worsening of symptoms occurred in women (p < 0.0001), while in male subjects it did not (p = 0.11). Significant differences between sexes were found during the baseline (p = 0.01), week 2 (p = 0.02), and week 6 (p = 0.008), but not on week 4 (p = 0.11). Online courses onset significantly increased screen exposure time (p < 0.0001). The baseline hours were 25.52 ± 11.33 and peaked on week 2, being 34.62 ± 10.90 hours. OSDI scores and online courses exposure times correlated significantly (week 2, R = 0.265; week 4, R = 0.262; week 6, R = 0.205).

Conclusions:

University students suffer from severe DED symptoms, which correlate with online courses onset. Educational institutions should foster ocular health.

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