Prevalence of Eye Strain Among Radiologists: Influence of Viewing Variables on Symptoms

Abstract

OBJECTIVE. To determine the prevalence of and factors contributing to eye strain among radiologists, we examined the influence of the viewing method (PACS vs hard-copy film), age, case volume, technique, work habits, and workstation design on symptoms.MATERIALS AND METHODS. An Internet-based survey was sent to 2,700 radiologists randomly selected from the membership database of the Radiological Society of North America. Questions included demographic information, viewing method, work habits, and workstation design. Common eye strain symptoms were evaluated on a 5-point Likert scale. Chi-square analysis, analysis of variance, and step-wise and regression analyses were performed to evaluate codependence of the explanatory variables with eye strain.RESULTS. The adjusted response rate was 14% (380 respondents). The largest age cohort was 36–50 years. The prevalence of eye strain was 36% and was not affected by the viewing method (PACS vs film). Increased symptoms could be independently predicted in radiologis...