Untitled - The Vision Council

Transcription

Overview
Widespread coverage of DigitEYEzed: The Daily Impact of Digital Screens on the Eye Health of
Americans has successfully raised the profile of digital eye strain and propelled computer
glasses to the forefront of vision-related news. The volume and quality of coverage signals a
growing interest in how digital devices impact humans’ everyday health, and in particular, the
long term impact on adults’ and children’s eyes.
In 2013, The Vision Council released its inaugural digital eye strain report and secured traction
with several technology and online news sites, including BuzzFeed, Mashable and Wired.
Reporters, however, focused on ergonomic tips to prevent digital eye strain and relayed a
narrow view of computer glasses.
To fuel interest in lens technology and broaden exposure from 2013, The Vision Council’s
communications team planned and implemented a tactical media strategy six months prior to
the 2014 report release. The plan centered on The Vision Council’s return to the International
Consumer Electronics Show (CES) and the onsite release of Digitized. As the largest
technology trade show in the world, CES provided a distinct and timely opportunity to rally
media already covering health and wearable technology.
The team’s efforts included:
 Crafting custom questions about digital eye strain for VisionWatch
 Developing and designing a 14-page report, which included research on HEV light and
quotes from The Vision Council’s vision experts and leadership
 Creating supporting press materials, including a message handbook, press releases,
FAQs, and key messages.
 Coordinating, designing and staffing a 20x20’ turnkey exhibitor booth at CES’ Digital
Health Summit (expanded from 2013’s 10x10 booth space)
 Providing in-person message training for all booth staff
 Building a role for The Vision Council at the Digital Health Summit, including a panelist
opportunity for Dr. Bazan (talking points were subsequently drafted)
 Coordinating meetings and calls with top-tier news outlets
 Facilitating media interviews with The Vision Council leadership and medical experts
As the report’s embargo lifted on January 9th, media responded immediately. That day, the team
handled an interview request from NBC and setup an onsite video recording with Dr. Justin
Bazan. The resulting segment aired on 219 affiliate channels and mentions on the TODAY show
and The Tonight Show with Jay Leno.
The NBC segment fueled ensuing coverage and ensured that The Vision Council’s messages
for computer glasses reached key media markets. In fact, ABC World News aired a nearly twominute segment less than two weeks after the NBC piece; the story ran on 113 affiliate stations.
In the days following the report release, The Vision Council’s communications team coordinated
an additional five interviews with leading news publications and websites, including USA Today,
CBS Miami, Prevention, TechPodcast Live, and Everyday Health. In all instances, reporters
favorably received the news on digital eye strain and even noted personal experiences of
device-related visual discomfort. And, with wearable technology in the spotlight after CES, the
digital eye strain report was well positioned for coverage.
The following memo includes an overview of the report coverage and an analysis of trends. The
compilation highlights media secured one month following the report release (January 9 –
February 6, 2014).
1
Executive Summary
Media coverage of the digital eye strain report exceeded all expectations. Report findings made
headlines in consumer and broadcast news, leading health publications and social media. And,
a large portion of coverage included information about computer glasses and lens technology.
To date, digital eye strain has been featured in 956 news stories, generating 283.1 million media
impressions. To put this number into perspective, coverage in just one month has nearly
surpassed all coverage of digital eye strain in 2013.
Impressions (millions)
Impressions by Outlet Type
200
180
160
140
120
100
80
60
40
20
0
Stories by Outlet Type
500
400
300
200
100
0
Online Print
TV
Radio
Online
Wire
release
Print
TV
Radio
Wire
release
Outlets
A wide variety of outlets took interest in the report, including those focused on consumer, health,
optical and technology news. Consumer news accounted for more than 95 percent of coverage,
introducing computer glasses to a crowd that has most likely never hear of digital eye strain or
computer glasses.
Business
Health
Technology
Optical
Consumer
0
100
200
300
400
500
600
The optical industry was also quick to cover the report with 17 trade outlets posting report
findings and expert quotes. Jobson Optical Group, which owns a dozen vision-related
publications, reported on the story twice, including a feature in Vision Monday and Review of
Optometric Business. For many eye doctors and optical centers, the report findings posed an
opportunity to promote their particular product or service (e.g. eye exams).
2
In addition to consumer news coverage, six health-focused outlets reported on digital eye strain
and eight technology outlets reviewed computer glasses as a helpful device-related accessory.
Tone
Our goal in shaping Digitized was to focus
on the lens technology in computer glasses
and showcase the benefits of such lenses
for computer users. Using digital eye strain
as a crux, the report positioned computer
glasses as a solution to the painful and
irritating strain that 70 percent of adults
experience.
To make this directly relatable to media,
press materials and outreach highlighted
emerging research on HEV light and its
potential impact on vision. At the same time,
the team was careful to not focus too much
on this controversial issue. Outreach was
also supported by quotes and anecdotes
from multiple vision experts and lens technology
specialists.
This research and preparation came through in
the tone of articles that resulted. The majority of
coverage was positive and harkened to the fact
that digital eye strain is a common issue for
many adults.
Tone of Stories
10
Positive
Neutral
Negative
946
Key Spokespersons Quoted
Dr. Bazan
Ed Greene
Mike Vitale
A small percentage of articles were neutral (10
articles / 1%) and included balanced reporting
on HEV light. Most notably, no negative articles
emerged about digital eye strain.
Key messages
Much of the coverage to-date has included The Vision Council’s key messages and positioned
the organization as the premiere source on digital eye strain. While some articles questioned
research on the impact of HEV light to vision, the majority have focused on adults’ growing use
of digital devices and that affect on visual comfort. Of great importance, media has been able to
grasp the need for computer glasses and discuss this genre of eyewear in a positive light.
The Vision Council’s messages that were repeated frequently in media include:
 Digital eye strain is a growing health concern for adults (953 articles / 100%)
 Nearly 70 percent of adults experience digital eye strain (716 articles / 75%)
 Computer glasses can minimize the experiences of digital eye strain (694 articles /
73%)
 Prolonged exposure to HEV light may lead to vision problems (443 articles / 46%)
3
Key Message Inclusion in Media
HEV light may impact long-term
vision health
Computer glasses are a solution
for digital eye strain
70% of U.S. adults experience
digital eye strain
Digital eye strain is a growing
health concern
0
200
400
600
800
1000
1200
In addition to finding key messages, coverage was surveyed for mention of The Vision Council
and the digital eye strain report. In total, The Vision Council was included in 904 articles (95% of
coverage) and the report – or study as it was referred to – was included in 942 stories (99% of
coverage).
Key Takeaways and Lessons Learned
Despite the extraordinary media success for this year’s report, there are always opportunities to
learn, grow and improve. In reviewing the coverage to-date and looking back at CES, the
following emerged as key lessons and areas for exploration in 2015:
I. Identify supporting science (e.g. white papers) on HEV light prior to media outreach
Media was particularly interested in developing the angle on HEV light and the impact to vision
health. While The Vision Council stressed that science around this issue was preliminary, it
would have been helpful to have white papers and evidence in a back pocket, prior to pitching.
Next year, if The Vision Council returns to CES, we recommend having the white papers readily
available and integrated into staff and spokespersons message handbook.
II. Find additional optometrists and/or ophthalmologists available for media requests
While Dr. Bazan did an outstanding job with media, coverage was so widespread that reporters
started requesting an alternate medical expert. To satisfy reporters and offer reprieve from Dr.
Bazan’s schedule, it would be behoove The Vision Council to identify additional spokespersons
for 2015. Reporters specifically requested an OD or MD and so medical experts should meet
those requirements and qualifications.
III. Shoot or obtain high resolution images of unbranded computer glasses
During media outreach, the team also discovered a high demand for photos of computer
glasses. Given the sensitivities with branding, this ask was particularly challenging and The
Vision Council had to reach out to member companies with time-urgent requests. To avoid this
issue in 2015, the organization should buy rights to images representing various types of
computer lenses (e.g. HEV filters, color filters, AR coatings, etc.). Images can also be
repurposed in educational materials and conference collateral.
4
Appendix A – Media Coverage Chart
Outlet
Byline
Headline
PR Newswire
Nearly 70 Percent of U.S. Adults Experience
Digital Eye Strain Due to Electronic Devices
Online
Read it and blink: 70 percent of adults report
'digital eye strain'
PR Newswire
Bayou Buzz
Date
Impression
s
Stories
1/9/2014
78,316,399
378
1/9/2014
N/A
1
Black Christian News
1/9/2014
22,549
1
Coach for Eyes
1/9/2014
N/A
1
How Technology Is Hurting Your Eyes
1/9/2014
2,074,553
1
Study: Nearly 70% of US adults experience
digital eye strain
1/9/2014
247,711
1
Everyday Health
Amir Khan
Healio
KFOR.com
NBC News
Save your eyes in the digital age
1/9/2014
272,402
1
KOAA.com
NBC News
1/9/2014
99,945
1
KPLCtv.com
NBC News
1/9/2014
84,404
1
KSBY.com
NBC News
1/9/2014
90,629
1
Having trouble reading this? Nearly 70% of
adults suffer from blurred vision caused by
staring at their computer screens
1/9/2014
12,035,246
1
1/9/2014
7,739,923
1
Study finds nearly 70% of U.S. adults
experience digital eye strain on using digital
devices
1/9/2014
446,483
1
Mail Online
NBC News
News Medical
Brian
Alexander
5
Penobscot Bay Pilot
1/9/2014
N/A
1
SparkPeople.com
Nicole Nichols
7 Cool Health & Fitness Gadgets from CES
2014
1/9/2014
1,823,247
1
The Epoch Times
Zachary
Stieber
Digital Eye Strain Experienced by 70 Percent of
Adults: Vision Council Report
1/9/2014
498,163
1
Tweak Town
Michael
Hatamoto
Majority of PC users suffer from digital eye
strain, report claims
1/9/2014
54,275
1
WBYT.com
NBC News
1/9/2014
71,443
1
WTLT-TV
NBC News
1/9/2014
61553
1
Dr. Justin Bazan, The Vision Council, w/ Tim
Reha, Digital Health Summit CES 2014
1/9/2014
10
1
Youtube - Digital Health
Summit
All About Vision
Gary Heiting
Computer Eye Strain: 10 Steps for Relief
1/10/2014
248,875
1
Examiner.com
Epoch Times
Digital Eye Strain Experienced by 70 Percent of
Adults: Vision Council Report
1/10/2014
10,291,866
1
Hawaii News Now
NBC News
1/10/2014
234,288
1
NECN.com
NBC News
1/10/2014
135,155
1
Newsmax
Alexandra
Ward
Digital Eye Strain Affects 7 Out of 10 ... So,
Remember To Blink!
1/10/2014
8,667,532
1
Optical Prism
Vision Council Educates Against Digital Eye
Strain at International Consumer Electronics
Show
1/10/2014
N/A
1
Silo Breaker
Vision Council Educates Against Digital Eye
Strain at International Consumer Electronics
Show
70% of U.S. Reporting Computer-Related Eye
Problems
1/10/2014
61,376
1
1/10/2014
55,304
1
Techlicious
Fox Van Allen
6
Texomas Homepage
NBC News
Smartphones and Tablets Causing "Digital Eye
Strain"
1/10/2014
38,781
1
Today Health Online
1/10/2014
3,983,889
1
Vision Monday
Impact of Digital Media on Vision Health Is Topic
of Vision Council’s Report and Booth at
International CES
1/10/2014
25,898
1
Wave 3
NBC News
1/10/2014
251,648
1
WDAM
NBC News
1/10/2014
58,843
1
WNYT
NBC News
1/10/2014
71,443
1
WWLP.com
NBC News
1/10/2014
150,287
1
Bubble News
70 Percent of adults be myopic because of a
computer screen
1/11/2014
258,650
1
AOL On Health
Digital Eye Strain Affects 70% of Americans
1/13/2014
10,086,620
1
Prevention.com
Markham Heid
The Eye Condition 70% Of Adults Have Without
Knowing
1/13/2014
1,102,148
1
The Optical Vision Site
Cathy
Sensory Overload At The Consumer Electronic
Show 2014
1/13/2014
N/A
1
Dr. Amy Walden &
Associates
Amy Walden
Give Your Eyes a Break From Digital Eye Strain
1/14/2014
N/A
1
Eyecessorize Blog
Saving Your Peepers from Screens
1/14/2014
N/A
1
Set Your Sights
Tackling Digital Eye Strain in Today’s Digital
World
1/14/2014
N/A
1
Swag Bucks
Digital Eye Strain Affects 70% of Adults
1/14/2014
823,118
1
7
The Oracle
Alex Rosenthal
Sore eyes shouldn’t look toward electronic
devices
1/14/2014
N/A
1
Associations Now
(ASAE newsletter)
Emma Beck
Survey: 70 Percent of Adults Report Digital Eye
Strain
1/15/2014
40,000
1
The problem with the eyes, which has 70
percent of the people, and that it does not even
know
1/15/2014
258,650
1
Bubble News
Kansas First News
NBC News
Digital Eye Strain
1/15/2014
N/A
1
Review of Optometric
Business
Carole Burns
How Many Americans Experience Digital Eye
Strain
1/15/2014
N/A
1
The Vision Council Advances Technology for
Healthy Eyes and Eyewear
1/15/2014
N/A
1
Study indicates nearly 70% of adults have eye
strain from computer screens
1/16/2014
23,822
1
70% of Adults Suffer from Digital Eye Strain
1/19/2014
1,929,108
1
TPN.tv
Indianapolis Recorder
Daily Mail
Boston.com
Times Record
Scott Smith
Precautions Can Alleviate Digital Eye Strain
1/19/2014
50,525
1
Cathy
The Vision Council Educates Against Digital Eye
Strain at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show
1/21/2014
N/A
1
Optometry Times
The Vision Council promotes digital eye strain
precaution at CES
1/22/2014
N/A
1
ABC News
Digital Eye Strain
1/25/2014
14,516,587
1
Digital device use leads to eye strain, even in
kids
1/25/2014
1,466,508
1
Detroit Free Press
Nancy
Hellmich- USA
Today
8
USA Today
Nancy
Hellmich
Digital device use leads to eye strain, even in
kids
1/25/2014
16,641,966
1
WN.com
Detroit Free
Press
How Screens Are Putting A Strain On Eyes
1/25/2014
844,200
1
WLS-TV
Digital eye strain a computer use concern
1/25/2014
4,127,891
1
Chew on Tech
Majority of PC users suffer from digital eye
strain, report claims
1/27/2014
N/A
1
KUHF-FM News
Pat Hernandez
What The Digital Age Is Doing To Your Eyes
1/27/2014
N/A
1
WOAI
Michael Main
Avert Your Eyes!
1/27/2014
75,999
1
Silo Breaker
KUHF-FM
News
What the Digital Age Is Doing To Your Eyes
1/27/2014
99,592
1
Digital Health Summit 2014: The Sixth Sense is
Digital
1/27/2014
8
1
Survey: digital eye strain shows in 70% of adults
1/28/2014
123,863
1
Protecting Your Kids Against Eye Strain
1/28/2014
N/A
1
SIX TIPS FOR HANDLING DIGITAL EYE
STRAIN
1/29/2014
63,767
1
70% of Adults Report Digital Eye Strain
1/29/2014
127,496
1
Youtube- Living in
Digital Times
WHAM 13
ABC News
Missouri Parent
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
Deborah
Wiethop
Discovery Fit and
Health blog
KARE 11
Adrienne
Broaddus
Digital eye strain: What can you do about it?
1/30/2014
522,457
1
Penobscot Bay Pilot
USA Today
Even Children are Affected by Digital Eye Strain
1/30/2014
N/A
1
This is the reality: What happens if you sit at the
computer for more than two hours straight
1/31/2014
323,164
1
Digital eye strain: What can you do about it?
1/31/2014
236,973
1
Best of CES Innovations in Patient Care part 2
1/31/2014
11,060
1
Bubble News
KVUE.com
Mediccast- Innovations
in Patient Care
KAREAdrienne
Broaddus
9
Bold Sky
Eye Care Tips Computer Users Must Know
2/1/2014
63,417
1
Business Recorder
Parvez Jabri
Dry eye often cause of computer vision
syndrome
2/1/2014
28,644
1
CIO Today
USA TodayNanci Hellmich
Nanci
Hellmich-USA
Today
Digital Device Use Leads to Eye Strain, Even in
Kids
Digital Device Use Leads to Eye Strain, Even in
Kids
2/2/2014
13,348
1
2/2/2014
143,502
1
CNN
Dr. Edward
Kondrot
How to avoid digital eyestrain
2/3/2014
29,407,293
1
KRDO.com
CNN- Dr.
Edward
Kondrot
2/3/2014
176,666
1
Yahoo! Shine
Prevention
The Eye Condition 70% of Adults Have Without
Knowing
2/3/2014
30,443,004
1
KQCD-TV
Haleigh Rosa
Digital Eye Strain Becomes More Common
2/4/2014
N/A
1
WellPoint Offers Six Tips for Handling Digital
Eye Strain
2/4/2014
6,706,106
1
Top Tech News
The Wall Street Journal
KATC.com
Kristen
Holloway
Digital Eye Strain Increasing Among Teens &
Adults
2/5/2014
167,236
1
Drama Fever
Nancy Z
WARNING: Staring at Lee Min Ho too long may
hurt your eyes
2/6/2014
658,318
1
Faculty of Medicine
5 Reasons Why Cellphones Are Bad For Your
Health
2/6/2014
26,484
My Celebrity and I
The Eye Condition 70% of Adults Have Without
Knowing
2/6/2014
N/A
1
10
WEAR ABC 3
HEALTH NEWS: Eye Strain in the Digital Age
2/6/2014
111,982
1
KUTV
Preventing Digital Eye Strain
2/7/2014
256,095
1
1/29/2014
1,674,306
1
Date
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
Viewership
13,337
8,258
USA Today
Nanci Hellmich
Print
Take Your Eyes Off Your Screen
Outlet
WZVN-FTM
KNDL-STL
Byline
ABC News
ABC News
TV
Show
ABC7 News at 5:30PM
StL Now on ABC30 @ 10pm
KTNV-LV
WHAM-ROC
ABC News
ABC News
KTNV
13WHAM News at 5:30
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
34,937
51,642
1
1
WZVN - FTM
WZVN - FTM
New England Cable
News
ABC News
ABC News
Boston, MA
Cable News
ABC7 News @ 9AM
ABC7 News @ 9AM
NECN Newsroom
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
21,515
21,515
13,752
1
1
1
New England Cable
News
Boston, MA
Cable News
NECN Sunday
1/12/2014
4,668
1
Global Toronto
CIII- Global
1/9/2014
22,000
1
KXJB
KZTV
Canada
Toronto
CBS News
CBS News
Valley News Live @ 5:30
KZTV Action 10 News Live @ 5pm
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
15,507
14,105
1
1
KOVR-SAC
WCTV
CBS News
CBS News
KOVR
Eyewitness News at 11
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
41,599
16,341
1
1
WCTV
KFDA
CBS News
CBS News
Blue Bloods
News Channel 10 Nightcast
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
16,341
33,199
1
1
KFDA
WCTV
WOIO-CLE
KYTX
KYTX
KSAZ-PHX
WGMB-BTR
CBS News
CBS News
CBS News
CBS News
CBS News
FOX News
FOX News
News Channel 10@6
Good Morning Show Weekend Edition
19 Action News
CBS19 This Morning
CBS19 This Morning
Fox 10 News @ 9pm
Fox News Baton Rouge
1/10/2014
1/11/2014
1/13/2014
1/13/2014
1/13/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
35,035
20,169
56,037
8,257
8,257
84,279
5,012
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
WDAF-KC
FOX News
WDAF
1/10/2014
50,857
Airs
1
1
11
1
KSAZ
Fox Business Network
Fox News
FOX News
FOX 10 News @ 9pm
FBN
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
6,190
23,068
1
1
KTVI-STL
KLRT
KRIV-HOU
KRIV-HOU
Headline News
FOX News
FOX News
FOX News
FOX News
HDLN News
FOX 2 News Mid-Day
FOX 16 News at 9
FOX 26 News at 6AM
FOX 26 News at 5AM
Morning Express with Robin Meade
1/10/2014
1/11/2014
1/13/2014
1/13/2014
1/10/2014
48,684
15,098
63,984
45,624
165,858
1
1
1
1
1
KAUT (MyTV)
KNTV-SF
MyTV
NBC News
Freedom 43 News
NBC Bay Area News at 11
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
7,508
44,545
1
1
KNTV-SF
NBC News
1/9/2014
44,545
1
WEAU
NBC News
WEAU 13 News at Ten
1/9/2014
26,045
1
WWLP-SPR
KFDX
WRCB
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
22News at 11PM
KFDX 3 News at 10
Eyewitness News at 11
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
24,013
24,444
10,781
1
1
1
KRBC
KWQC-DAV
NBC News
NBC News
KRBC News at 10
KWQC TV6 News at 10PM
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
6,780
38,290
1
1
KRIS
WTOV
KHNL-HON
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
6 News at Ten
News 9 tonight
Hawaii News Now at 5:30
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
10,455
32,351
23,483
1
1
1
KSNW
WREX
WNYT
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
KSN News at 10
13 News at 10
Newschannel 13 Live @ 11
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
32,517
22,383
29,953
1
1
1
WMAQ-CHI
WTHR-IN
NBC News
NBC News
NBC5 News at 10
Eyewitness News Nightbeat
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
193,563
74,764
1
1
KRIS
WSLS
NBC News
NBC News
6 News at Ten
WSLS 10 on Your Side at 11PM
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
10,455
34,733
1
1
KFOR-OKC
KSBY-SBA
KMIR
KTVZ
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
Extra Addition
KSBY News at 6:30
KMIR6 News @ 6
NewsChannel 21 @ Six
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
75,675
12,845
25,087
16,959
1
1
1
1
KOB-ABQ
NBC News
Eyewitness News 4 @ 6:30
1/9/2014
48,539
1
KGET
KTVZ
NBC News
NBC News
17 News at 5
NewsChannel 21 @ Five
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
13,348
25,733
1
1
KCRA-SAC
NBC News
KCRA 3 Reports @ 5pm
1/9/2014
132,757
12
1
KIEM
WTMJ-MILW
KKCO
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
News Channel 3 at 5
Wisconsin Tonight
KKCO 11 News at 5:30
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
7,424
12,626
11,969
1
1
1
KJAC
WVLA-BTR
KTVB
KTFT
K13PL
KULR
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
12 News J-KAC
NBC 33 News at 6:30
KTVB News at Five
KTVB News at Five
First News at 5
KULR- 8 First News at 5
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
2,532
9,632
54,613
8,417
N/A
7,568
1
1
1
1
1
1
KPVI
KCWY
KRNV
WIS - COL
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
KPVI 6 at 5pm
News 13 at five
News 4 at Four
WIS News 10 7:00 Report
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
12,233
6,176
6,144
64,815
1
1
1
1
WAND
KFYR
KTVZ
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
WAND News at 5
First News at 5
NewsChannel 21 @ Six
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
29,681
18,822
16,959
1
1
1
KMIR
KOB-ABQ
KSBW
KGET
KTVZ
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
KMIR6 News @ 6
Eyewitness News 4 @ 6:30
Action News at 5
17 News at 5
NewsChannel 21 @ Five
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
25,087
48,539
46,682
13,348
25,733
1
1
1
1
1
KNDO
KIEM
KKCO
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
Local News @ 5
News Channel 3 at 5
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
11,220
7,424
11,969
1
1
1
WVLA-BTR
KTFT
KTVB
K13PL
KULR
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC 33 News at 6:30
KTVB News at Five
KTVB News at Five
First News at 5
KULR- 8 First News at 5
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
9,632
8,417
54,613
N/A
7,568
1
1
1
1
1
KPVI
KCWY
KRNV
WIS - COL
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
KPVI 6 at 5pm
News 13 at five
News 4 at Four
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
12,233
6,176
6,144
64,815
1
1
1
1
KMIR
KING-SEA
WTMJ-MILW
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
KMIR6 News @ 6
King 5 News
Wisconsin Tonight
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
25,087
152,913
12,626
1
1
13
1
KMIR
KNTV-SF
KGW-POR
KNTV-SF
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
KMIR6 News @ 5
Newschannel 8 at 5pm
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
19,479
64,578
61,721
64,578
1
1
1
1
KCRA-SAC
NBC News
KCRA 3 Reports @ 5pm
1/9/2014
132,757
1
KFOR-OKC
KNSD-SD
KJAC
WAGT
KNSD-SD
WIS-COL
WHEC-ROC
KALB
WYFF
WHEC-ROC
WWLP-SPR
WFLA-TB
WITN-GRENC
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
Extra Addition
NBC 7 News at 4
12 News J-KAC
NBC 26 News at 7
NBC 7 News at 4
Roc City Tonight
6 PM News
WYFF News 4 @ 5:30
News 10NBC @ Five
22News at 5:30PM
News Ch8 at 5:30
WITN 7 News at 5:30PM
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
62,129
46,554
2,532
10,335
54,445
64,815
37,157
41,763
80,842
37,855
37,980
50,578
29,587
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
WPBN
KKCO
WMBF
WTLV-JAX
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
7&4 News at 5PM
WMBF News at 5:30
First Coast News at 5:30PM
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
17,290
11,969
6,447
48,116
1
1
1
1
WJAR-PVD
WWBT-RIC
WJAC
WGRZ-BUF
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC 10 News @ 5:30
12 News at 5:30
6 News at 5:30 PM
Channel 2 News at 5:30
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
57,354
49,141
50,620
68,794
1
1
1
1
WBBH-FTM
WPXI-PIT
NBC News
NBC News
NBC 2 News @ 5:30
Channel 11 News--First at Five
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
34,802
96,301
1
1
WCYB
WKTV
WSAZ
WICU
WAVE-LOU
WNYT
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
News 5 Live at 5:30
Live at Five
WSAZ First at Five
12 News at 5
WAVE News
Newschannel 13 Live @ 11
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
76,484
22,844
101,811
17,431
47,846
82,928
1
1
1
1
1
1
KXAN-AUS
WBRE
NBC News
NBC News
KXAN News at 5
Wilkes-Barre, PA
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
71,377
19,837
14
1
1
KGW-POR
KNTV-SF
NBC News
NBC News
Newschannel 8 at 5pm
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
61,721
64,578
1
1
KVLY
NBC News
Valley News Live @ 5
1/9/2014
35,993
1
WTVA
WXII
WAND
WVIT-HFD
WTOV
WGEM
KMIR
WECT
KSAN
KTVE
WCNC-CLT
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
WTVA News at Five
WXII 12 News @ 5
WAND News at 5
NBC CT News at 5pm
News 9 Live at 5
WGEM Live at Five
KMIR6 News @ 5
WECT News at 5
KSAN 3 News
NBC10 News at 5
NBC Charlotte @ 5:00
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
61,061
60,387
29,681
60,956
35,782
19,352
19,479
23,067
429
17,419
25,576
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
WVIT-HFD
WOWT
WBIR
KGNS
KDLT
KSNT
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC CT News at 5pm
Channel 6 News at 5
10 News at Five
KGNS News at 5 PM
KDLT News
KSNT 27 Kansas First News
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
60,956
83,847
64,994
15,371
12,385
15,808
1
1
1
1
1
1
WILX
WNDU
KFOR-OKC
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
News 10 at 5PM
NewsCenter 16 at 5
NewsChannel 4 @ 5pm
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
21,854
31,565
110,216
1
1
1
KJRH
NBC News
2News Works For You
1/9/2014
25,229
1
KIEM
WEEK
WLBZ
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
News Channel 3 at 5
Live at Five
WLBZ News Center 2 at 5
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
7,424
38,391
16,518
1
1
1
WAFF
New England Cable
News
NBC News
NBC News
WAFF 48 News Now
News @ 4pm
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
32,275
8,188
1
1
KSHB-KC
WBBH-FTM
WISE
WFIE
KVOA
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
41 Action News at 4
NBC 2 News @ 4
NBC33 News at 4
14 News at 4:00PM
News 4 Tuscon at 4pm
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
50,915
25,055
1,183
27,450
9,105
1
1
1
1
1
KWES
NBC News
Newswest 9 @ 4
1/9/2014
5,672
15
1
WTKR-NFK
WMTV
KTFT
KTVB
WVIT-HFD
WKTV
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
News Channel 3 at 4
15 News at 4
News at Four
News at Four
Steve Harvey
NewsChannel 2 at Noon
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
31,788
22,799
1,914
9,210
45,005
24,995
1
1
1
1
1
1
WBBH-FTM
WMAQ-CHI
KNSD-SD
WSMV-NAS
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC 2 News @ Noon
NBC5 News at Noon
NBC7 News Midday
Channel 4 News @ 4:30
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
29,343
71,840
16,974
71,243
1
1
1
1
KXAS-DAL
KOZL
Today Show
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC 5 First at Four
1/9/2014
1/9/2014
1/10/2014
85,819
0
4,950,000
1
1
1
Tonight Show
NBC News
Jay Leno
1/10/2014
2,262,986
1
WOAI-SAT
NBC News
The Tonight Show with Jay Leno
1/10/2014
48,869
1
KOMU
WSFA
WDSU-NO
KOAA
WSAV-SAV
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
KOMU New Today
WSFA 12 News at 5
WDSU News at 5PM
News 5 at 5pm
WSAV First News at 5:00
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
15,754
70,223
64,124
48,623
19,135
1
1
1
1
1
KSNW
KOAA
WHIZ
WDAM
WTVA
WBBH- FTM
WVTM - BIRM
K13PL
KULR
WPXI-PIT
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
KSN News
News 5 at Noon
Live at Noon
Live Midday
WTVA News at Noon
NBC2 News @11AM
Ala 13 News @11AM
Country Morning
Today in Montana
Channel 11 News at 6AM
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
20,529
8,910
3,341
28,690
18,259
6,635
19,798
N/A
507
66,169
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
WSFA
WJAC
WSFA NBC
WBBH- FTM
WEYI
WNBC NY
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
Alabama Today
6 News at Sunrise
Alabama Today
NBC 2 News @5AM
NBC 25 News Today
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
65,490
29,780
68,812
14,937
N/A
98,551
1
1
1
1
1
16
1
WTAP
KTVM
KECI
KTAL-SHV
WMAQ-CHI
WPXI-PIT
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
Daybreak
Montana Today
Montana Today
NBC 6 News Today
NBC5 News at 5AM
Channel 11 News at 5AM
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
3,738
1,747
2,009
994
55,978
40,892
1
1
1
1
1
1
KGW-POR
NBC News
Newschannel 8 @Sunrise @ 5am
1/10/2014
10,478
1
WNDU
WJAC
WAND
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
16 Morning News
6 News at Sunrise
WAND News Daybreak at 5AM
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
6,763
8,858
4,000
1
1
1
WNDU
WGRZ
NBC News
NBC News
16 Morning News
Ch. 2 News @ 4:30Am
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
6,763
3,314
1
1
WNBC-NY
WTLV- JAX
KGW-POR
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
Today
First Coast News @ 4:30
News Channel 8@ Sunrise @4:30
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
66,237
6,865
4,197
1
1
1
KSDK-STL
NBC News
Today in St. Louis at 4AM
1/10/2014
20,082
1
KHQ
KJAC
KFDX
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
Morning News KHQ
12 News J-KAC
KFDX 3 News @10AM
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
4,571
N/A
N/A
1
1
1
WMAQ-CHI
KWQC-DAV
KTAL-SHV
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC5 News at 10AM
KWQC TV 6 at 10
NBC 6 News Weekend
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/11/2014
17,877
N/A
874
1
1
1
KSBW
NBC News
Action News Weekend Sunrise
1/11/2014
16,091
1
KFDX
WCBD-CHS
KNSD-SD
WNBC-NY
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
KFDX 3 News @ 5
WCBD 9AM News
NBC7 News Today
Sunday Today in New York
1/12/2014
1/12/2014
1/12/2014
1/12/2014
7,818
9,700
9,069
150,708
1
1
1
1
WGGB-SPR
NBC News
ABC40 in the Morning
1/12/2014
N/A
1
WVTM
WVTM-BIRM
KGW-POR
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
Ala 13 News @6AM
Ala 13 News @5:30
Newschannel 8 @ Sunrise @ 7:00 AM
1/12/2014
1/12/2014
1/12/2014
27,166
9,720
18,679
1
1
1
WBAL-BAL
NBC News
11 News Sunday Morning
1/12/2014
21,269
1
KPLC
WPMI
NBC News
NBC News
NBC 7 News
LOCAL 15 Today
1/13/2014
1/13/2014
36,242
11,153
17
1
1
KPLC
WPTZ-BUR
WPMI
WPMI
KNSD -SD
KNSD -SD
WPTZ-BUR
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
NBC News
7 News Live at Five
Newschannel 5 Today @ 5 AM
NBC Local 15 Today
NBC Local 15 Today
NBC7 News Today
NBC7 News Today
Newschannel 5 Today @5AM
1/13/2014
1/13/2014
1/13/2014
1/13/2014
1/13/2014
1/13/2014
1/13/2014
36,242
3,002
11,153
11,153
6,016
6,016
3,002
1
1
1
1
1
1
1
KALB
NBC News
NBC Alexandria, LA Tonight
1/14/2014
5,204
1
KALB
NBC News
NBC Alexandria, LA Morning
1/15/2014
18,918
1
Al Jazeera America
US Cable
1/10/2014
100,000
1
Headline News
US Cable
1/10/2014
257,467
1
Al Jazeera America
US Cable
1/11/2014
100,000
1
News 12 Long Island
News 12 Long Island
WEEK
KNBC-LA
100,000
N/A
NBC News
NBC News
News 25 at Noon
Today in L.A. Weekend
1/10/2014
1/10/2014
1/16/2014
1/19/2014
25,866
1
1
1
1
KUSA-DEN
WCCO-MIN
NBC News
CBS
9News First
4 News This Morning 6AM
1/23/2014
1/24/2014
16,715
17,715
1
1
KXLY
ABC News
ABC World News With David Muir
1/25/2014
2,755
1
WHAS-LOU
ABC News
1/25/2014
34,928
1
KITV-HON
ABC News
1/25/2014
24,952
1
KIMO
ABC News
1/25/2014
709
1
KJUD
ABC News
1/25/2014
N/A
1
KTNV-LV
ABC News
1/25/2014
27,963
1
KOLO
ABC News
1/25/2014
21,289
1
KRCR-CR
ABC News
1/25/2014
8,927
1
KAEF
ABC News
1/25/2014
631
24,373
1
18
KESQ
ABC News
1/25/2014
2,713
1
KOMO-SEA
ABC News
1/25/2014
142,469
1
KGO-SF
ABC News
1/25/2014
123,962
1
KGTV-SD
ABC News
1/25/2014
52,253
1
KEYT
ABC News
1/25/2014
11,197
1
KXTV-SAC
ABC News
1/25/2014
34,869
1
KERO-BFL
ABC News
1/25/2014
4,819
1
KFSN-FRES
ABC News
1/25/2014
27,595
1
KATU-POR
ABC News
1/25/2014
91,506
1
KABC-LA
ABC News
1/25/2014
221,791
1
KEZI
KDRV
ABC News
ABC News
KEZI 9 News at 6:30
1/25/2014
1/25/2014
15,413
8,110
1
1
WAAY
ABC News
1/25/2014
5,154
1
KDNL-STL
ABC News
1/25/2014
4,915
1
WCVB-BOS
ABC News
1/25/2014
171,495
1
WLS-CHI
ABC News
1/25/2014
257,742
1
WDAZ
ABC News
1/25/2014
N/A
1
WDAY
ABC News
1/25/2014
1,522
1
KMCY
ABC News
1/25/2014
N/A
1
WPLG-MIA
ABC News
1/25/2014
32,134
1
19
WPBF
ABC News
1/25/2014
45,670
1
WTXL
ABC News
1/25/2014
3,864
1
WTAE-PIT
ABC News
1/25/2014
90,387
1
WWSB
ABC News
1/25/2014
30,299
1
KTBS-SHV
ABC News
1/25/2014
4,455
1
KTVO
ABC News
1/25/2014
1,331
1
WZVN-FTM
ABC News
1/25/2014
20,523
1
KHQA
WVII
CBS
ABC News
Paid Programming
1/25/2014
1/25/2014
1,353
2,723
1
1
WOLO- COL
ABC News
1/25/2014
14,811
1
WTRFDT3
ABC News
1/25/2014
1,944
1
WVNY-BUR
ABC News
1/25/2014
8,151
1
KAQY
ABC News
1/25/2014
3,311
1
WTVQ
ABC News
1/25/2014
3,877
1
WMAR-BAL
ABC News
1/25/2014
7,515
1
WKPT
KEYT
ABC News
ABC News
To Be Announced
KEYT Newschannel 3 at 11 PM
1/25/2014
1/25/2014
11,238
3,311
1
1
WABC-NY
ABC News
1/25/2014
3,602,727
1
KFSN-FRES
KHAS
KLKN
ABC News
ABC News
ABC News
Action News at 11
Saturday Night Live
Channel 8 Eyewitness News at Ten
1/25/2014
1/25/2014
1/25/2014
21,847
15,835
12,328
1
1
1
WRTV-IN
ABC News
RTV 6 News at 11:00
1/25/2014
48,428
20
1
NewsChannel 8
ABC News
1/25/2014
1,449,000
1
WTOK
ABC News
1/25/2014
5,419
1
KNXV-PHX
ABC News
1/25/2014
47,444
1
KRDO
ABC News
1/25/2014
35,847
1
KIFI
ABC News
1/25/2014
3,855
1
KOAT-ABQ
ABC News
1/25/2014
102,220
1
KVIA
ABC News
1/25/2014
12,437
1
KFBB
ABC News
1/25/2014
1,927
1
KGUN
ABC News
1/25/2014
35,941
1
KTVX-SLC
ABC News
1/25/2014
3,737
1
KIVI
ABC News
1/25/2014
16,007
1
KSVI
ABC News
1/25/2014
0
1
KSAW
ABC News
1/25/2014
1,575
1
KWYB
WBAY
ABC News
ABC News
To Be Announced
1/25/2014
1/25/2014
N/A
13,700
1
1
WQOW
ABC News
1/25/2014
N/A
1
WEAR
ABC News
1/25/2014
2,018
1
WJLA-DC
ABC News
1/25/2014
73,893
1
WQAD-DAV
ABC News
1/25/2014
5,736
1
WAPT
ABC News
1/25/2014
7,666
1
21
KMIZ
ABC News
1/25/2014
N/A
1
WFTV-ORD
ABC News
1/25/2014
130,890
1
WKRN-NAS
ABC News
1/25/2014
41,730
1
KTUL
ABC News
1/25/2014
23,261
1
KMBC-KC
KSAT-SAT
ABC News
ABC News
KMBC 9 News at 5:30
1/25/2014
1/25/2014
38,877
38,877
1
1
KETV
ABC News
1/25/2014
11,593
1
WGNO-NO
ABC News
1/25/2014
1,860
1
KMGH-DEN
ABC News
1/25/2014
43,855
1
WFAA-DAL
ABC News
1/25/2014
58,165
1
KVUE-AUS
ABC News
1/25/2014
7,566
1
KBMT
ABC News
1/25/2014
N/A
1
KRGV
ABC News
1/25/2014
6,151
1
KTRK-HOU
ABC News
1/25/2014
100,932
1
KESQ
KLTV
ABC News
ABC News
Newschannel 3 at 11
1/25/2014
1/25/2014
8,951
4,366
1
1
KCRG-IOW
ABC News
1/25/2014
10,745
1
KAKE
ABC News
1/25/2014
7,489
1
WHOI
ABC News
1/25/2014
1,992
1
WDHN
ABC News
1/25/2014
1,419
1
22
KAVU
ABC News
1/25/2014
N/A
1
KHAS
KATC
NBC News
ABC News
NBC Nightly News
1/25/2014
1/25/2014
1,403
2,927
1
1
KIII
ABC News
1/25/2014
929
1
WAOW
ABC News
1/25/2014
7,127
1
KAMC
ABC News
1/25/2014
3,740
1
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ABC News
1/25/2014
290,160
1
KLKN
ABC News
1/25/2014
5,403
1
KSWO
ABC News
1/25/2014
5,129
1
WOI-DM
ABC News
1/25/2014
7,349
1
WXYZ-DET
ABC News
1/25/2014
64,369
1
KHOG
ABC News
1/25/2014
N/A
1
WNCF
ABC News
1/25/2014
N/A
1
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ABC News
1/25/2014
6,409
1
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1/25/2014
N/A
1
KMID
ABC News
1/25/2014
N/A
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KSFY
ABC News
1/25/2014
1,069
1
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ABC News
1/25/2014
2,159
1
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ABC News
1/25/2014
1,008
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ABC News
1/25/2014
18,219
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23
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ABC News
1/25/2014
57,160
1
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ABC News
1/25/2014
10,193
1
WKOW
ABC News
1/25/2014
10,436
1
KCAU
ABC News
1/25/2014
N/A
1
KODE
ABC News
1/25/2014
N/A
1
KATV
KTXS
ABC News
ABC News
To Be Announced
1/25/2014
1/25/2014
16,251
5,377
1
1
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ABC News
1/25/2014
6,003
1
KSPR
WSIL
ABC News
ABC News
To Be Announced
1/25/2014
1/25/2014
7,401
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1
1
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ABC News
1/25/2014
4,912
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ABC News
1/25/2014
973
1
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ABC News
1/25/2014
1,824
1
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ABC News
1/25/2014
3,319
1
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ABC News
1/25/2014
1,708
1
KFSN-FRES
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ABC News
ABC News
Action News at 11
ABC 7 Eyewitness News
1/25/2014
1/25/2014
21,847
213,579
1
1
WISN-MKE
ABC News
WISN 12 News at 10PM
1/25/2014
17,689
1
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1/25/2014
46,030
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KHAS
WQAD
WVEC- NFK
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ABC News
News 5 @ 11:30
WQAD News 8 at 11
13 News @ Noon
1/27/2014
1/27/2014
1/27/2014
2785
13143
26709
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13WHAM News Miday
1/27/2014
16137
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FOX 5 News This Morning
1/27/2014
31868
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ABC News
Local News 8 This Morning
1/27/2014
8276
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Good Morning San Antonio
1/27/2014
1/27/2014
20901
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News Channel 8
KAVU
ABC News
ABC News
Morning Report
Newscenter 25 @Sunrise
1/27/2014
1/27/2014
0
2714
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1
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ABC News
ABC News
Good Day at 6
1/27/2014
1/27/2014
117145
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1
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ABC News
Good Morning East Texas @ 5am
1/27/2014
14092
1
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ABC News
Channel 8 Eyewitness News Midday
1/27/2014
11585
1
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KAVU
ABC News
ABC News
Wake Up Wisconsin
Newscenter 25 @Sunrise
1/27/2014
1/27/2014
1866
2714
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1
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ABC News
WMDT 47 News at 5am
1/27/2014
2927
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ABC News
ABC27 News Daybreak at 5am
1/27/2014
15781
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ABC News
Good Morning Quad Cities
1/27/2014
1629
1
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ABC News
Good Morning Richmond at 5:30
1/27/2014
39586
1
KIFI
ABC News
Local News 8 This Morning
1/27/2014
5221
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ABC News
Good Morning Region 8 at 5
1/27/2014
10360
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ABC News
WMDT 47 News at 5am
1/27/2014
1012
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ABC News
ABC27 News Daybreak at 4:30am
1/27/2014
N/A
1
25
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ABC News
ABC News
5:00pm local news
ABC27 Nightside: Extra Edition
1/26/2014
1/26/2014
3671
7271
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1
WLNE
ABC News
WLNE6 News at Eleven
1/26/2014
13994
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WMDT 47 News at 11pm
1/26/2014
7678
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ABC News
WMDT 47 News at 10pm
1/26/2014
2126
1
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ABC News
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1/26/2014
3321
1
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ABC News
Action 7 News live this morning Sunday
1/26/2014
122900
1
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ABC News
1/26/2014
36944
1
WISN
ABC News
WISN 12 News this weekend/Sunday
1/26/2014
23420
1
WLNE
ABC News
WLNE6 News at Eleven
1/26/2014
13994
1
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ABC News
1/26/2014
108393
1
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ABC News
1/26/2014
112724
1
KOMO
ABC News
KOMO 4 News Sunday 6pm
1/26/2014
115833
1
KDRV
KIFI
KAAL
ABC News
ABC News
ABC News
News Watch 12 at 5
Local News 8 at 5pm
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1/26/2014
1/26/2014
1/26/2014
22230
3945
1966
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1
1
WPLG
ABC News
Local 10 News Sunday Morning @ 9am
1/26/2014
52736
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KTNV
ABC News
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1/26/2014
13820
1
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ABC News
ABC 27 News Sunday Morning
1/26/2014
31954
1
News Channel 8
ABC News
Washington DC Morning Report
1/26/2014
N/A
1
26
WSL
ABC News
Sunday Morning ABC 7 Eyewitness News
1/26/2014
95535
1
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ABC News
1/26/2014
11649
1
WTNH
ABC News
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1/26/2014
14463
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KMBC
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ABC News
ABC 7 Eyewitness
KMBC 9 Weekend News
1/26/2014
1/26/2014
19933
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ABC News
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1/26/2014
1/26/2014
27172
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KOAT
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ABC News
First News at 5:30
1/26/2014
1/26/2014
26895
108393
1
1
CHSJ
Canada
National
Steven and Chris
1/30/2014
3,000
1
WSVN-MIA
FOX
NBC News
ABC News
ABC News
Today in Florida
Night Report
ABC15 News at 4PM
KUSI News at 6:00pm
Eyewitness News @ Noon
2/3/2014
2/4/2014
2/4/2014
2/4/2014
2/4/2014
46,010
N/A
39,322
18,573
77,648
1
1
1
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KATV
ABC News
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2/4/2014
95,392
1
WJTV
CBS
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2/4/2014
31,910
1
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CBS
WNEM TV-5 News at 5:30
2/4/2014
44,229
1
WCBD-CHS
KDKA-PIT
NBC News
CBS
WCBD 5PM News
KDKA-TV News at Four
2/4/2014
2/4/2014
8,469
56,602
1
1
WJRT
ABC News
ABC 12 News at Four
2/4/2014
19,175
KMOT
KNXV-PHX
KUSI-SD
WFTV-ORD
1
27
WABC-NY
ABC News
Eyewitness News First at 4
2/4/2014
368,982
1
WJRT
WBRZ-BTR
ABC News
ABC News
ABC 12 News at Four
WBRZ News 2 Louisiana at Noon
2/4/2014
2/4/2014
19,175
21,550
1
1
KTRK-HOU
ABC News
13 Eyewitness News at 11AM
2/4/2014
103,331
1
WBTV-CLT
CBS
WBTV News 3 at Noon
2/4/2014
81,758
1
KMPH-FRES
WTIC-HFD
FOX
FOX
Great Day
Fox CT Morning News at 7
2/4/2014
2/4/2014
81,758
44,836
1
1
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WIAT-BIRM
WRIC-RIC
CBS
CBS
ABC News
Daybreak
Wake Up Alabama
Good Morning Richmond
2/5/2014
2/5/2014
2/5/2014
9,558
7,468
54,446
1
1
1
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ABC News
2/5/2014
31,471
1
KWTX-WAC
CBS
News Ten This Morning
2/5/2014
4,075
1
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CBS
4 News This Morning 6AM
2/5/2014
21,545
1
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WBTW
CBS
CBS
Wake Up Alabama
News 13 This Morning
2/5/2014
2/5/2014
8,225
19,814
1
1
WCCO-MIN
CBS
4 news this morning 5am
2/5/2014
18,504
1
KATV
WTAE-PIT
ABC News
ABC News
Daybreak 4:30
Channel 4 Action News
2/5/2014
2/5/2014
3,089
32,354
1
1
KATC
KATC
ABC News
ABC News
TV-3 News
Good Morning Acadiana
2/5/2014
2/5/2014
46,376
30,126
1
1
WICD
WHNS
ABC News
FOX
2/6/2014
2/7/2014
N/A
15,975
1
1
News Radio 680 WPTF
WPTF
Sunrise News
Morning News @ 8
Radio
Action News @ 11am
1/10/2014
101,000
1
28
WBBM-AM
WBBM
1/10/2014
2,140,100
1
FM News 101 KXL
KXL
1/10/2014
222,100
1
1/27/2014
326,500
1
KUHF-FM
News for Houston
29
Appendix B – Full Text Articles
Read it and blink: 70 percent of adults report 'digital eye strain'
NBC News
1/9/14
Brian Alexander
http://www.nbcnews.com/health/read-it-blink-70-percent-adults-report-digital-eye-strain2D11883909
Timed for the biggest gathering of screens — desktop, laptop, tablet, TV, phone — on the
planet, a new survey finds 70 percent of users of those screens report some level of eye
discomfort dubbed “digital eye strain.”
Symptoms included dry eyes, blurry vision, fatigue and neck and shoulder cramping. The survey
released Thursday by the Vision Council, a trade group for makers of eye care products,
warned of serious long-term eye risk, including macular degeneration and cataracts.
Here, readers might pause to blink.
The intense stare is part of what makes screens so hard on the eyes, said Dr. Joshua L.
Dunaief, associate professor of ophthalmology at the University of Pennsylvania’s Scheie Eye
Institute, who has no connection to the Vision Council.
“We don’t blink as much when using screens,” Dunaief told NBC News, “because the blink
response is suppressed. So we don’t spread tears across our eyes and they wind up drying
out.”
The solution, he said, is to blink every 10 seconds or so.
The vision council is promoting another solution at the International Consumer Electronics Show
(CES) in Las Vegas: special lenses made for looking at screens. But while there may be hype in
the push for “computer glasses,” the survey does point out some very real hazards of spending
hours looking at screens.
The survey of 7,160 adults in the United States, taken online in October, found that 60 percent
of respondents said they spent at least six hours looking at screens daily, and 28 percent
reported viewing screens for 10 hours or more. Seventy percent reported eye discomfort in the
poll administered by Survey Sample International using a statistically balanced sample.
“I see what I would consider a normal patient population, representative of the average
experience most people are having,” Brooklyn optometrist Justin Bazan, a paid consultant to the
Vision Council. “And the problem is that they think [such strain] is normal. It’s so common and
pervasive, they consider it a cost of doing business. They don’t know there are things you can
do” to prevent it.
Other steps to make our screen addictions easier on our eyes include positioning desktop
screens at about arm’s length without any tilt, holding small screens slightly below eye level,
eliminating glare from screens, and looking away from screens for a short time at least every 20
minutes.
30
Of course, as many recent studies have pointed out, you can, and should, get out of your chair
and walk around. That’s not only good for your eyes, but your cardiovascular system, too.
More controversially, the Vision Council promoted the idea that blue light emitted by screens
could lead to age-related macular degeneration and cataracts.
Studies of over 800 Chesapeake Bay watermen in the 1980s and 1990s showed that fishermen,
who are exposed to direct and reflected sunlight for many hours per day over years, had an
increased risk of later eye disease. Subsequent analysis showed that light of 400-500
nanometers in wavelength, so called blue light (as well as some other wavelengths) was
implicated.
More recent laboratory research of eye cells in dishes has suggested that intense blue light can
create eye damage due to oxidation, or free radicals.
But Dunaief, who has studied this effect, said “I have not seen any conclusive evidence that
levels of light you expect to see from a computer would cause” eye damage. But, he added, “we
do not know that exposure to bright computer screens or light on sunny days over many years is
without risk.”
“It’s most likely there is some level of damage,” Bazan said. Though unable to point to any
research showing levels of blue light emitted by screens could induce such damage in living
people, he said he recommends heavy screen users wear protective filtering glasses whether or
not they usually use glasses for vision correction.
Dunaief suggested another solution for anybody worried their constant screen time might lead to
later eye disease: wear sunglasses with gray or brown lenses when you’re outside, and turn
down the intensity of the screens to the lowest comfortable setting.
“Adjusting the light on the screen ought to reduce whatever risk may exist,” he said.
31
How Technology is Hurting Your Eyes
Everyday Health
1/9/14
By Amir Khan
http://www.everydayhealth.com/healthy-living/how-technology-is-hurting-your-eyes.aspx
Nine hours per day -- that's how much time the average American spends in front of cell phone,
tablet, computer or television screens. All that screen time is causing eye strain and other vision
problems, according to a new report by the Vision Council, a nonprofit trade association.
Researchers surveyed more than 7,000 people and found that screen time is steadily increasing
for kids and adults. Over the past year, the number of people who admitted spending 10 hours
per day on electronic devices rose 4 percent.
“Nearly 70 percent of U.S. adults experience digital eye strain as a result of the growing use of
these devices," the researchers wrote in the report. "Adults aged 18 to 34 report feeling eye
strain at a higher rate (45 percent) than their older counterparts.”
Constantly staring at a screen can lead to a host of problems, said Douglas Lazzaro, MD,
professor and chairman in the Department of Ophthalmology at SUNY Downstate Hospital in
Brooklyn, N.Y.
“The longer you look at a computer screen, the more eye strain you tend to have, which can
cause headaches,” Dr. Lazzaro said. “We also tend to blink a lot less when we’re looking at a
screen, and when we blink less, we dry out our eyes.”
This dryness can cause burning and itching, said Jacqueline Busingye, MD, assistant professor
of ophthalmology at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Hospital in New York City, and
research has shown staring at screens can cause long-term vision problems.
“Some people believe that staring at a screen can change your vision and cause you to become
more nearsighted. It’s controversial, but some evidence has shown that to be the case,” Dr.
Busignye said.
The typical kid growing up today gets more than 8 hours of daily screen time, according to the
U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, and the number of hours will probably only
increase as they get older. We are seeing the first ever generation of kids who have spent their
entire lives staring at computer screens, Lazzaro said.
“We’re going to have a generation of people who are going to have all types of eye problems,”
he predicted. “My nephew looks at an iPad or smartphone all the time, and he has constant
headaches and dry eyes.”
So how do you fix the problem? It’s as simple as walking away, said Busignye.
“Taking a breaking and looking away and blinking a lot is important,” she said. “Walking away
will give your eyes times to lubricate and adjust.”
A couple of computer tweaks can help too, according to Lazzaro said. “Increasing font size
provides some benefit, so you’re not struggling to see the screen,” he said. “There are certain
types of protection you can put on screens, such as filters, to cut down on glare, which can also
help reduce eye strain.”
32
“But make you take a break for at least 10 minutes every hour,” he added. “It’s a simple and
easy way to protect your eyesight.”
33
Study: Nearly 70% of US adults experience digital eye strain
Healio
1/9/14
http://www.healio.com/optometry/primary-care-optometry/news/online/%7Bb0f95059-d3b94bb5-8190-dbeb191f5242%7D/study-nearly-70-of-us-adults-experience-digital-eye-strain
While companies are unveiling the latest digital technologies at the 2014 International
Consumer Electronics Show, a new study shows that nearly 70% of adults in the U.S.
experience digital eye strain.
The Vision Council released the study Thursday at CES and hosted a booth to educate
attendees on computer eye wear technology and various ways to lessen digital eye strain.
The study, based on a sample of 7,160 American adults, also found that 28% of participants
spend 10 or more hours in front of digital devices, an increase of 4% from last year. Additionally,
41% of adults have never tried – or do not know how – to reduce their digital eye strain.
"The world’s reliance on electronics has proven to be beneficial in many ways but poses a
problem for the eyes,” the study reported. “Nearly 70% of U.S. adults experience digital eye
strain as a result of the growing use of these devices. Adults 18 to 34 years old report feeling
eye strain at a higher rate (45%) than their older counterparts.
"New research also suggests that overexposure to blue light, also referred to as high-energy
visible or HEV light, may contribute to vision problems such as cataracts and age-related
macular degeneration,” the report continued. “Long-term implications are just now being
studied, but the short-term impact of digital eye strain affects individuals on a daily basis."
The report also included recommendations from the Vision Council's medical advisory board on
how to minimize digital eye strain, which included wearing computer glasses, taking breaks
every 20 minutes and building an "eye-gonomic" workspace.
34
7 Cool Health & Fitness Gadgets from CES 2014
SparkPeople.com
1/9/2014
Nicole Nichols
http://www.sparkpeople.com/blog/blog.asp?post=7_cool_health_fitness_gadgets_from_ces_201
4
I just spent the last couple of days at the gigantic Consumer Electronics Show (CES) in Las
Vegas. To say that this convention is massive is an understatement. Companies from all over
the world come to CES to unveil and promote their latest technologies and gadgets in virtually
every category, from cars to crockpots to TVs to headphones.
One growing section of CES is health and fitness technology. This wing is dedicated to "Digital
Health," where you'll find dozens of types of fitness monitors and activity trackers along with
technology based sleep solutions, smoking cessation tools, teeth whitening gadgets and more.
I had a chance to check out everything new in health and fitness tech earlier this week. Here's a
selection of emerging trends and products that I thought were downright cool—and likely to take
off in the coming years.
(Scroll below the infographic to read all about these products!)
….
5. Eyeglasses for Computer Geeks.
If you have a job that involves staring at a computer screen all or most of the day, you're
probably familiar with the eye strain, blurred vision and even headaches that can occur from all
that monitor gazing. According to The Vision Council, this condition is called digital eye strain,
and it affects 70% of U.S. adults. The Vision Council had a huge booth at CES showcasing
several brands and frames of eyeglasses that have specific "computer" lenses created to
reduce eye strain caused by looking at a computer monitor.
Because monitors give off a blue light (the same kind of light that can disrupt your sleep if you're
looking at it before bed), these glasses are tinted yellow to diminish those effects. Some are so
slight that you can't see the yellowish tint. Others, like the one I photographed to the left, are
decidedly yellow. While you might look a little funny with yellow lenses, the benefits may be
worth it, especially if your job involves computers. These lenses can be made with any
prescription and to fit into any type of eyeglasses frames.
35
Digital Eye Strain Experienced by 70 Percent of Adults: Vision Council Report
The Epoch Times
1/9/2014
By: Zachary Stieber
http://www.theepochtimes.com/n3/441363-digital-eye-strain-experienced-by-70-percent-ofadults-vision-council-report/
Digital eye strain is becoming a bigger and bigger problem, with nearly seven out of 10 U.S.
adults experiencing it, a new report from the Vision Council found.
This strain is physical discomfort from being in front of a digital screen for two or more hours–
symptoms include dry, red, and irritated eyes; blurred vision; back, neck, or shoulder pain; and
headaches.
What causes it? Looking at digital screens for extended periods of time, which our eyes are not
equipped to do, according to Justin Bazan, optometrist and medical adviser to the Vision
Council.
“Focusing on objects at an intermediate distance – like a computer or smartphone – ultimately
fatigues the eyes’ focusing system and causes strain,” he said in the report announcement.
“These experiences might be common, but they are not normal.”
Many digital devices not only weary the eyes, but also emit high-energy visible or blue light,
which could detrimentally impact vision in the long run. Six out of 10 adults are unaware of this
potential impact.
“Digital eye strain has become a large concern for the vision community,” said Ed Greene, CEO
of The Vision Council, in the announcement. “Fortunately, the optical industry has made great
strides in the past year to develop lens technologies that can best address the causes of digital
eye strain. Like other glasses we rely on to read and see clearly, computer glasses are
transforming the way we look at computer and hand-held device screens.”
The council recommends using these glasses to reduce eye strain. They can be made with or
without prescriptions.
In addition, the council says people should:
Use the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at something 20 feet
away.
Create an “eyegonomic” work station with proper lighting, seat adjustments, and monitor
settings.
Enlarge your computer’s text and browser windows for easier viewing.
Remember to blink; staring at screens can dry eyes.
36
Majority of PC users suffer from digital eye strain, report claims
Tweak Town
1/9/14
By: Michael Hatamoto
http://www.tweaktown.com/news/34749/majority-of-pc-users-suffer-from-digital-eye-strainreport-claims/index.html
Almost 70 percent of consumers in the United States suffer from digital eye strain from
continuous use of electronic devices, according to The Vision Council. As casual consumers
become more comfortable with devices like smartphones and tablets, it seems there is major
concern that digital eye strain will become more prevalent. The term digital eye strain explains
two or more hours using a device with a digital screen - and includes dry, red and irritated eyes,
fatigued eyes, blurred vision, headaches, and back, neck or shoulder pain.
"Digital eye strain has become a large concern for the vision community," said Ed Greene, The
Vision Council CEO, in a statement. "Fortunately, the optical industry has made great strides in
the past year to develop lens technologies that can best address the causes of digital eye strain.
Like other glasses we rely on to read and see clearly, computer glasses are transforming the
way we look at computer and handheld devices."
For better eye health, the "20-20-20" rule: After every 20-minute duration, take a short 20second break while looking at something 20 feet away. When reading text or looking at a
particular screen, either increase font size or zoom in.
37
Having trouble reading this? Nearly 70% of adults suffer from blurred vision caused by
staring at their computer screens
Mail Online
1/9/2014
http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-2536785/Nearly-70-percent-adults-suffer-blurred-visionpain-headaches-caused-staring-computer-screens.html
A new study released Thursday revealed that nearly 70 percent of American adults experience
eye strain caused by computers, tablets and smartphones.
The vision council reported their findings, which also found that half of adults don't know they
can reduce the discomfort, at the 2014 Consumer Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
Sufferers can start to experience the nagging back pain, blurred vision and headaches just two
hours into using a device and research has begun to suggest that exposure to some types of
digital screen light may lead to cataracts and macular degeneration.
Up close and personal: A study released Thursday reveled that 70 percent of Americans suffer
from digital eye strain caused by looking at electronic device screens for two or more hours. The
study was presented by the Vision Council at the Consumer Electronics Show 2014 Ipictured) in
Las Vegas
'The eye is not equipped to look at digital screens for extended periods of time,' said Justin
Bazan, OD, optometrist and medical adviser to The Vision Council. 'These experiences might
be common, but they are not normal.'
But common they are.
The Vision Council found that many Americans average 6 to 9 hours per day in front of digital
devices.
They also discovered that the percentage of adults spending 10 or more hours per day staring
at devices rose 4 percent from last year.
That fatigue means digital eye strain.
According to the Vision Council, 'eye care providers are noting a steady rise in the number of
patients with screen-related eye strain.'
While aches and pains and possibility of more serious issues seem like a good reason to pick
up a paperback instead of an e-reader, there are ways to cut down the effects of digital strain.
Eye yai yai: The study found that adult Americans spend a great deal of their day in front of
digital devices. Four percent more respondees said they spent 10+ hours in front of screens
than did thje year before
The Vision Council breaks down the the percentage of their respondees who used various
digital devices daily
38
Ways to reduce strain include: positioning screens at arm's length, holding handheld devices
below eye-level to elminate glare, and taking short breaks from looking at screens as often as
possible.
There are also optics-based solutions in development that could ease the problem.
'Digital eye strain has become a large concern for the vision community,' said Ed Greene, CEO
of The Vision Council. 'Fortunately, the optical industry has made great strides in the past year
to develop lens technologies that can best address the causes of digital eye strain.
'Like other glasses we rely on to read and see clearly, computer glasses are transforming the
way we look at computer and hand-held device screens.'
39
Digital Eye Strain Affects 7 Out of 10 ... So, Remember To Blink!
Newsmax
1/10/2014
Alexandra Ward
http://www.newsmax.com/thewire/digital-eye-strain-blink/2014/01/10/id/546377
A whopping 70 percent of TV watchers, iPhone and iPad users, and people who are glued to
their computers don't blink enough, which causes digital eye strain, a new survey found.
When people constantly use screens like the ones on those devices, they tend to stare for long
periods of time without blinking, Dr. Joshua L. Dunaief, associate professor of ophthalmology at
the University of Pennsylvania's Scheie Eye Institute, told NBC News.
"We don't blink as much when using screens because the blink response is suppressed," he
said. "So we don’t spread tears across our eyes and they wind up drying out."
The survey, which was recently carried out by a trade group called the Vision Council, found
that 60 percent of adult respondents spent at least six hours a day staring at some sort of
screen. Twenty-eight percent looked at screens for up to 10 hours a day. All but 30 percent of
the 7,160 people included in the survey reported experiencing eye discomfort after.
Symptoms of digital eye strain can include dry eyes, blurry vision, fatigue, and neck and
shoulder cramping.
"I see what I would consider a normal patient population, representative of the average
experience most people are having," Brooklyn optometrist Justin Bazan, a paid consultant to the
Vision Council, told NBC News. "And the problem is that they think [such strain] is normal. It’s
so common and pervasive, they consider it a cost of doing business. They don’t know there are
things you can do [to prevent it]."
So what can digital eye strain sufferers do? Turn down the brightness on their devices, hold cell
phones and tablets slightly below eye level, and give their eyes a break every 20 minutes or so,
experts say.
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70% of U.S. Reporting Computer-Related Eye Problems
Techlicious
1/10/2014
By: Fox Van Allen
http://www.techlicious.com/blog/70-of-us-reporting-computer-related-eye-problems/
I appreciate you taking the time to read this. Just be sure to blink while doing it.
According to a Survey Sample International poll, 70 percent of the U.S. reports some amount of
digital eyestrain from using our electronics use that could develop into serious problems later
on. Vision Council, an eye industry trade group, sponsored the poll.
As Americans, we spend so much time looking at screens these days. 60% of us report using
devices for at least 6 hours per day in the survey, while 28% report using screens for 10 hours
or more per day. According to eye doctors, that’s beginning to put our ocular health at risk.
“Eye care providers are noting a steady rise in the number of patients with screen-related eye
strain, whose complaints include dry, irritated eyes; blurred vision; and head, neck and back
pain,” the Vision Council report explains. Already, there has been a 35% increase in advancing
myopia since smartphones were introduced in 1997. Exposure to high-energy visible light from
your computers and smartphones is also thought to cause long-term problems like cataracts
and age-related macular degeneration.
The good news is that protecting your eyes from strain couldn’t be easier – or cheaper. Dr.
Joshua L. Dunaief recommends to NBC News that we need to avoid staring at our devices and
remember to blink our eyes at least once every 10 seconds. “We don’t blink as much using
screens because the blink response is suppressed,” Dunaief explains. “So we don’t spread
tears across our eyes and they wind up drying out.”
Also, for every 20 minutes of using your computer, look into the distance for 20 seconds to allow
your eyes a chance to refocus. And after two hours of continuous use, make sure you take a 15
minute break.
The American Optometric Association (AOA) recommends screens be located 20 to 28 inches
from your eyes during use, and about 15 to 20 degrees below eye level (4 to 5 inches). Wearing
a pair of tinted glasses like the designed-for-computer-use Gunnar Optiks can also help.
“Special lens designs, lens powers or lens tints or coatings may help to maximize visual abilities
and comfort,” the AOA says.
Younger children should avoid illuminated screens entirely in their early development. The
American Academy of Pediatrics recommends parents “discourage screen media exposure” for
children under 2.
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70 percent of heavy digital screen users complain of eyestrain
Examiner.com
1/10/14
http://www.examiner.com/article/70-percent-of-heavy-digital-screen-users-complain-of-eyestrain
Baby boomers might remember how their mothers would tell them not to watch too much TV, as
it would strain their eyes. Fast forward to the 21st century, and now the same might be said of
digital screens, according to a report issued Thursday at CES (via the Epoch Times).
The new affliction is called "digital eye strain." According to the study, released by the Vision
Council, a trade group for makers of eye care products, 70 percent of adults report that problem,
with symptoms including dry eyes, blurry vision, fatigue and neck / shoulder cramping.
The problem, Dr. Joshua L. Dunaief, associate professor of ophthalmology at the University of
Pennsylvania’s Scheie Eye Institute (who has no connection to the Vision Council) told NBC
News, is that the blink response is suppressed when using a digital screen.
We don’t blink as much when using screens, because the blink response is suppressed. So we
don’t spread tears across our eyes and they wind up drying out.
The solution is an obvious one: Force a blink every 10 seconds or so. It would be, however,
unfamiliar to most of us, as blinking is generally an autonomic response.
The survey was done online in OCtober. Of 7,160 U.S. adults, 60 percent of respondents said
they spent at least six hours looking at screens daily, and 28 percent reported viewing screens
for 10 hours or more. OF those, 70 percent reported eye discomfort. The survey was
administered by Survey Sample International using a statistically balanced sample.
Brooklyn optometrist Justin Bazan, a paid consultant to the Vision Council, said:
I see what I would consider a normal patient population, representative of the average
experience most people are having. And the problem is that they think [such strain] is normal.
It’s so common and pervasive, they consider it a cost of doing business. They don’t know there
are things you can do [to prevent eyestrain].
The Vision Council went so far as to warn of more than just tired eyes. Their study warned that
users could face serious long-term eye risk, including macular degeneration and cataracts.
More controversially, the Vision Council promoted the idea that blue light emitted by screens
could lead to age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. That theory came from the idea
that blue light (based on wavelength) emitted by screens could lead to age-related issue.
In the 1980's and 1990's, studies of more than 800 Chesapeake Bay watermen showed that
they had an increased risk of later eye disease. Subsequent analysis implicated light of 400-500
nanometers in wavelength, so called blue light, as well as some other wavelengths. The
fishermen are exposed to direct and reflected sunlight for many hours per day over years.
Dunaief, though, has studied this effect, and said that he has not seen any conclusive evidence
that the levels of light from a computer are sufficient to cause eye damage. He did add, though,
that “we do not know that exposure to bright computer screens or light on sunny days over
many years is without risk.”
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Impact of Digital Media on Vision Health Is Topic of Vision Council’s Report and Booth at
International CES
Vision Monday
1/10/2014
http://www.visionmonday.com/latest-news/article/impact-of-digital-media-on-vision-health-istopic-of-vision-councils-report-and-booth-at-international-ces-1/
LAS VEGAS—A report released yesterday at International CES here by The Vision Council
finds that almost 70 percent of U.S. adults experience digital eye strain while on digital
devices— including computers, tablets and smartphones. Yet, nearly half of adults don’t know
how to or have never tried to reduce their visual discomfort. As the market experiences a surge
in high-technology related digital device purchases, The Vision Council pointed out, computer
glasses and other “eyegonomic” techniques are encouraged to minimize strain.
The Vision Council describes digital eye strain as the physical discomfort experienced after two
or more hours in front of a digital screen. Symptoms typically include dry, red or irritated eyes;
blurred vision; fatigued eyes; back, neck or shoulder pain; and/or headaches. While not
permanent, digital eye strain can be painful and irritating and often affects work productivity.
“The eye is not equipped to look at digital screens for extended periods of time,” said Justin
Bazan, OD, optometrist and medical adviser to The Vision Council. “Focusing on objects at an
intermediate distance— like a computer or smartphone— ultimately fatigues the eyes’ focusing
system and causes strain. These experiences might be common, but they are not normal.”
In addition to tiring the eye’s focusing system, many digital devices emit high-energy visible
(HEV) blue light, which may have long-term effects on vision health. Research suggests that
overexposure to HEV light can damage the retina and increase the likelihood and severity of
eye disorders such as age-related macular degeneration and cataracts. However, The Vision
Council finds that six in 10 adults are unaware of the harmful consequences of HEV blue light.
“Digital eye strain has become a large concern for the vision community,” said Ed Greene, CEO
of The Vision Council. “Fortunately, the optical industry has made great strides in the past year
to develop lens technologies that can best address the causes of digital eye strain. Like other
glasses we rely on to read and see clearly, computer glasses are transforming the way we look
at computer and hand-held device screens.”
Designed for the mid-distance range of a computer screen, computer glasses help bring digital
content into focus. When combined with special lens coatings and tints, they reduce screen
glare and block out potentially harmful HEV and blue-violet light. Computer glasses can be
made with or without a prescription.
The Vision Council is exhibiting at CES and the Digital Health Summit TechZone. For
consumers, and for eyecare professionals to discuss with their patients, The Vision Council is
offering tips to minimize digital eye strain in the report, DigitEYEzed: The Daily Impact of Digital
Screens on the Eye Health of Americans, which is now posted at the organization’s site.
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Vision Council Educates Against Digital Eye Strain at International Consumer Electronics
Show
Optical Prism
1/10/2014
http://www.opticalprism.ca/vision-council-educate/
As more than 150,000 attendees test hundreds of new digital devices and wearable
technologies at the 2014 International Consumer Electronics Show (CES) this week in Las
Vegas, The Vision Council is on hand to help users protect their eyes from digital eye strain, a
growing health concern for avid electronic consumers.
Findings of a report examining the impact of digital media on vision health – released today by
The Vision Council – reveal that nearly 70 percent of U.S. adults experience digital eye strain
while on devices such as computers, tablets and smartphones. Yet, almost half of adults don’t
know how to or have never tried to reduce their visual discomfort.
In an effort to educate avid digital device users, The Vision Council is connecting with CES
attendees about the benefits of computer glasses and coatings, demonstrating the latest in
computer eyewear technology and teaching additional ways for individuals to minimize digital
“Digital devices are an important part of our everyday lives, as evidenced by the incredible
innovations displayed at CES,” said Ed Greene, CEO of The Vision Council. “While our eyes are
not ideally equipped to look at digital screens for extended periods of time, there are simple
precautions that can prevent the discomfort that many Americans experience while using
popular devices – and allow us to continue using these technologies without the risk of digital
eye strain.
Show attendees and members of the media stopping by The Vision Council’s booth (#26726),
located in South Hall 2 of the Las Vegas Convention Center, are invited to explore the benefits
of computer glasses and learn how digital devices cause eye strain. The booth features both
vision and lens experts, various computer eyewear technology, and advanced findings from The
Vision Council’s digital eye strain report.
To view or download a copy of DigitEYEzed: The Daily Impact of Digital Screens on the Eye
Health of Americans, visit The Vision Council online at www.thevisioncouncil.org
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Computer Eye Strain: 10 Steps for Relief
All About Vision
1/10/2014
Gary Heiting
With so many of us using computers at work, computer eye strain has become a major jobrelated complaint. Studies show that eye strain and other bothersome visual symptoms occur in
50 to 90 percent of computer workers.
These problems can range from physical fatigue, decreased productivity and increased
numbers of work errors, to minor annoyances like eye twitching and red eyes.
Here are 10 easy steps you can take to reduce your risk of computer eye strain and other
common symptoms of computer vision syndrome (CVS):
1. Get a comprehensive eye exam.
Having a routine comprehensive eye exam is the most important thing you can do to prevent or
treat computer vision problems.
According to the National Institute of Occupational Safety and Health (NIOSH), computer users
should have an eye exam before they start working on a computer and once a year thereafter.
During your exam, be sure to tell your eye doctor how often you use a computer at work and at
home. Measure how far your eyes are from your screen when you sit at your computer, and
bring this measurement to your exam so your eye doctor can test your eyes at that specific
working distance.
2. Use proper lighting.
Eye strain often is caused by excessively bright light either from outdoor sunlight coming in
through a window or from harsh interior lighting. When you use a computer, your ambient
lighting should be about half as bright as that typically found in most offices.
Eliminate exterior light by closing drapes, shades or blinds. Reduce interior lighting by using
fewer light bulbs or fluorescent tubes, or use lower intensity bulbs and tubes. If possible,
position your computer monitor or screen so windows are to the side, instead of in front or
behind it.
Many computer users find their eyes feel better if they can avoid working under overhead
fluorescent lights. If possible, turn off the overhead fluorescent lights in your office and use floor
lamps that provide indirect incandescent or halogen lighting instead.
Sometimes switching to "full spectrum" fluorescent lighting that more closely approximates the
light spectrum emitted by sunlight can be more comforting for computer work than regular
fluorescent tubes. But even full spectrum lighting can cause discomfort if it's too bright. Try
reducing the number of fluorescent tubes installed above your computer workspace if you are
bothered by overhead lighting.
3. Minimize glare.
Glare on walls and finished surfaces, as well as reflections on your computer screen also can
cause computer eye strain. Consider installing an anti-glare screen on your monitor and, if
possible, paint bright white walls a darker color with a matte finish.
Again, cover the windows. When outside light cannot be reduced, consider using a computer
hood.
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If you wear glasses, purchase lenses with anti-reflective (AR) coating. AR coating reduces glare
by minimizing the amount of light reflecting off the front and back surfaces of your eyeglass
lenses.
4. Upgrade your display.
If you have not already done so, replace your old tube-style monitor (called a cathode ray tube
or CRT) with a flat-panel liquid crystal display (LCD), like those on laptop computers.
If your older monitor is causing computer eye strain, replace it with a flat-panel LCD screen that
is easier on the eyes.
LCD screens are easier on the eyes and usually have an anti-reflective surface. Old-fashioned
CRT screens can cause a noticeable "flicker" of images, which is a major cause of computer
eye strain. Even if this flicker is imperceptible, it still can contribute to eye strain and fatigue
during computer work.
Complications due to flicker are even more likely if the refresh rate of the monitor is less than 75
hertz (Hz). If you must use a CRT at work, adjust the display settings to the highest possible
refresh rate.
When choosing a new flat panel display, select a screen with the highest resolution possible.
Resolution is related to the "dot pitch" of the display. Generally, displays with a lower dot pitch
have sharper images. Choose a display with a dot pitch of .28 mm or smaller.
Flicker is not an issue with LCD screens, since the brightness of pixels on the display are
controlled by a "backlight" that typically operates at 200 Hz.
If you see a lower refresh rate (e.g. 60 Hz) noted on an LCD screen, don't worry — this refers to
how often a new image is received from the video card, not how often the pixel brightness of the
display is updated, and this function typically is not associated with eye strain.
Finally, choose a relatively large display. For a desktop computer, select a display that has a
diagonal screen size of at least 19 inches.
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Computer Vision News
Download an Updated Report on Digital Eye Strain in the United States
1/10/2014
January 2014 — Americans on average spend six to nine hours a day in front of digital devices
— and the percentage of adults spending 10 or more hours in front of screens rose 4 percent in
the last year. Nearly 70 percent of U.S. adults experience digital eye strain as a result of the
growing use of these devices. Adults aged 18 to 34 report feeling eye strain at a higher rate (45
percent) than their older counterparts.
Those numbers are based on findings from a 2013 survey conducted by The Vision Council in
October 2013 among 7,000 adults nationwide. The report updates the initial report issued in
2012.
The report contains lots of interesting information about who is using computer screens, cellular
phones and tablets, as well as how often and for what purpose. It also contains
recommendations for reducing the negative impact on vision. Download the report here.
5. Adjust your computer display settings.
Adjusting the display settings of your computer can help reduce eye strain and fatigue.
Generally, these adjustments are beneficial:
 Brightness. Adjust the brightness of the display so it's approximately the same as the
brightness of your surrounding workstation. As a test, look at the white background of
this Web page. If it looks like a light source, it's too bright. If it seems dull and gray, it
may be too dark.
 Text size and contrast. Adjust the text size and contrast for comfort, especially when
reading or composing long documents. Usually, black print on a white background is the
best combination for comfort.
 Color temperature. This is a technical term used to describe the spectrum of visible
light emitted by a color display. Blue light is short-wavelength visible light that is
associated with more eye strain than longer wavelength hues, such as orange and red.
Reducing the color temperature of your display lowers the amount of blue light emitted
by a color display for better long-term viewing comfort.
For computers running on a Microsoft Windows operating system, display settings can be
adjusted in Control Panel. For an Apple computer, display settings are found in Systems
Preferences (in the Applications folder in Finder).
In some cases, the color temperature of a desktop computer monitor is adjusted on the display
itself.
Text Size and Color on Your Digital Screen
To avoid eye strain, at what size should your computer display text? According to computer
vision syndrome expert Dr. James Sheedy, it should be three times the smallest size that you
can read from your normal viewing position.
The best color combination for your eyes is black text on a white background, though other
dark-on-light combinations also work well.
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If you use Windows 7, you can adjust text size and color by going to the Start menu, opening
the Control Panel and choosing Display. Here you can also adjust your screen's resolution and
brightness, for best visual comfort.
You can adjust text size when using Internet Explorer, Firefox, Safari and other browsers, too.
For example, in Firefox, you can enlarge an entire webpage by using the keyboard command
Ctrl + as many times as you want, while Ctrl 0 makes everything normal-sized again. (Ctrl makes everything smaller.) To enlarge only the text, use Alt V, then Z, then T. Then use Ctrl +
again, and you'll see just the text enlarging.
Each browser and email program has different commands for adjusting text size, so look
through the menus to learn what they are. Or visit Google and search for how-tos there.
Many smart phones let you adjust text size. For example, on the iPhone 4, you simply open the
Settings menu, then choose General, then Accessibility, then Large Text. Here you can choose
a new font size for core applications such as Mail, Notes and Calendar. The font will also
display in certain third-party applications.
Whatever type of digital screen you're using, you'll enjoy it more if you make the effort to adjust
the view for your visual comfort. Don't know how? Check the manufacturer's website or look it
up on Google. — L.S.
6. Blink more often.
Blinking is very important when working at a computer; blinking moistens your eyes to prevent
dryness and irritation.
When working at a computer, people blink less frequently — about one-third as often as they
normally do — and many blinks performed during computer work are only partial lid closures,
according to studies.
Tears coating the eye evaporate more rapidly during long non-blinking phases and this can
cause dry eyes. Also, the air in many office environments is dry, which can increase how quickly
your tears evaporate, placing you at greater risk for dry eye problems.
If you experience dry eye symptoms, ask your eye doctor about artificial tears for use during the
day.
By the way, don't confuse lubricating eye drops with the drops formulated to "get the red out."
The latter can indeed make your eyes look better — they contain ingredients that reduce the
size of blood vessels on the surface of your eyes to "whiten" them. But they are not necessarily
formulated to reduce dryness and irritation.
To reduce your risk of dry eyes during computer use, try this exercise: Every 20 minutes, blink
10 times by closing your eyes as if falling asleep (very slowly). This will help rewet your eyes.
7. Exercise your eyes.
Another cause of computer eye strain is focusing fatigue. To reduce your risk of tiring your eyes
by constantly focusing on your screen, look away from your computer at least every 20 minutes
and gaze at a distant object (at least 20 feet away) for at least 20 seconds. Some eye doctors
call this the "20-20-20 rule." Looking far away relaxes the focusing muscle inside the eye to
reduce fatigue.
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To ease eye strain, make sure you use good lighting and sit at a proper distance from the
computer screen.
Another exercise is to look far away at an object for 10-15 seconds, then gaze at something up
close for 10-15 seconds. Then look back at the distant object. Do this 10 times.
This exercise reduces the risk of your eyes' focusing ability to "lock up" (a condition called
accommodative spasm) after prolonged computer work.
Both of these exercises will reduce your risk of computer eye strain. Also, remember to blink
frequently during the exercises to reduce your risk of computer-related dry eye.
8. Take frequent breaks.
To reduce your risk for computer vision syndrome and neck, back and shoulder pain, take
frequent breaks during your computer work day.
9. Modify your workstation.
If you need to look back and forth between a printed page and your computer screen, this can
cause eye strain. Place written pages on a copy stand adjacent to the monitor.
Light the copy stand properly. You may want to use a desk lamp, but make sure it doesn't shine
into your eyes or onto your computer screen.
Improper posture during computer work also contributes to computer vision syndrome. Adjust
your workstation and chair to the correct height.
Purchase ergonomic furniture to enable you to position your computer screen 20 to 24 inches
from your eyes. The center of your screen should be about 10 to 15 degrees below your eyes
for comfortable positioning of your head and neck.
10. Consider computer eyewear.
For the greatest comfort at your computer, you might benefit from having your eye care
professional modify your eyeglasses prescription to create customized computer glasses. This
is especially true if you normally wear contact lenses, which may become dry and
uncomfortable during sustained computer work.
Computer glasses also are a good choice if you wear bifocals or progressive lenses, because
these lenses generally are not optimal for the distance to your computer screen.
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Bubble News
70 Percent of adults be myopic because of a computer screen
1/11/2014
70 Percent of adults be myopic because of a computer screen
Electronic equipment has become a natural thing for modern society. One that is often used is a
computer. Ranging from children to adults, today almost everyone has to use a computer. Many
people are also working everyday for eight hours at the computer.
Unfortunately, the use of computers for a long time is often not matched by the eye health care.
A study revealed that 70 percent of adults experience eye damage due to computer screens,
tablets, and smartphones. Starting from eye fatigue, eye problems that occur could even make
them experience nearsightedness or obscure vision.
The study revealed that people who see the computer too long without protection will begin to
experience back pain. Furthermore, they will experience blurred vision and headaches after two
hours of using the electronic tools. Other studies have even revealed that some types of lamps
used in an electronic device can cause cataracts.
"The eyes are not ready to see the digital screen in a long time. Experiences may be
experienced by many people, but actually this is not fair and should watch out," said Justin
Bazan of The Vision Council, as reported by the Daily Mail (09/01).
The Vision Council is doing research in the United States reveal that adults spend at least six to
nine hours in front of a digital screen. The number of users of electronic tools that spend their
time in front of screens up to 10 hours even up four percent from last year.
Of all kinds of electronic goods using digital screens, television is the most widely used, followed
by smartphones, desktop computers, laptop computers, tablets (e-reader), and the last video
game.
Researchers suggested several steps for computer users to protect their eyes. Among others,
keep the screen with all the hand-eye, lowering the light intensity on the screen, and often
rested with direct view to something other than an electronic screen. If you like to read an ereader, you should consider replacing the habit of reading the print version.
The results of this study can at least be used as a picture and a warning to yourself. Always
maintain eye health when using electronic equipment with a digital display.
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The Eye Condition 70% Of Adults Have Without Knowing
Prevention.com
1/13/14
By: Markham Heid
http://www.prevention.com/health/health-concerns/how-spot-digital-eye-strain
The average American spends 6 to 9 hours every day staring at some type of computer screen,
whether it’s a tablet, a laptop, or a smartphone. And we’re guessing you do, too.
If so, you may join the ranks of the nearly 70% of adults who suffer from “digital eye strain”—a
progressive condition that could eventually lead to serious eye diseases, concludes a new
report from The Vision Council, a nonprofit organization that supports the optical industry.
Digital eye strain is an escalating health issue. Your eyes aren’t made to stare at a fixed point
for hours and hours on end, especially one that emits high-energy visible light, a.k.a., artificial
“blue light.” Overexposure to this type of light—and the fatigue of focusing on the same middledistant point for a third or more of your day—can strain your eyes and cause dryness or
redness, blurred vision, “tired” eyes, headaches, and back or shoulder aches in the short term,
the report authors say.
Long term, years of staring at a computer could lead to scarring of your cornea and partial loss
of vision, says Clayton Blehm, MD, an ophthalmologist who has published research on
computer vision syndrome. Long hours of screen time can also lead to dry eye disease—or an
inability to manufacture sufficient tears to keep your eyes lubricated, explains Justin Bazan, OD,
a member of the American Optometric Association who also acts as medical advisor to The
Vision Council.
How can you tell if you’re putting too much electronic stress on your eyes? If you find your vision
feels strained, your eyes are watering or red, or you catch yourself rubbing a sore neck,
temples, or shoulders, those are all signs you’re overworking your eyes, Dr. Bazan says.
To give your eyes a break, Dr. Bazan recommends following the 20-20-20 rule; that is, every 20
minutes you should take a break to stare at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Do this,
and you’ll help relieve the strain computer screens put on your peepers.
If you normally wear glasses, contacts, or reading glasses, talk to an eye doctor about specially
designed computer glasses. “They're built to bring intermediate distance objects, like a
computer, into focus and cut glare from competing light sources,” he says. Even people who
don’t normally wear glasses may benefit from these types of specs if they spend a lot of time on
a computer, Dr. Bazan adds.
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Digital Eye Strain Affects 70% of Americans
AOL On Health
1/13/2014
http://on.aol.com/video/digital-eye-strain-affects-70--of-adults-518083301
[Video]
In a recent study performed by the Vision Council 70 percent of adults reported that they
experience digital eye strain.
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Sensory Overload At The Consumer Electronic Show 2014
1/13/2014
By: Cathy
WOW!!!! Since we blog onTechnology Eyewear every Tuesday on Optical Vision Resources, I
thought I should attend The International Consumer Electronics Show in Vegas. I don’t think you
can imagine the sheer amount of people, products and companies. Over 3200 Exhibitors, with
over 150,000 people. If you want to know how big this is: The show was in the Las Vegas
Convention Center, The Venetian, LVH hotel, Treasure Island….Pavilions and in hotel suites.
You could fit, the Luxottica, Safilo and Marchon booth into just the Samsung booth. Add in at
least 100 other companies with the same size of booth…
It must be at least 1/2 mile to get from the front of the convention center to the back of the
center in 1 Hall. (North, South, Central Halls) Think, every electronic device, including sensors,
batteries, wearable tech, robots, smart beds, sports equipment, toys, games, eyeglasses, smart
TV’s, smart washing machines, smart kitchens, smart cars and smart health, smart
toothbrushes and 3D Printers. There must have been over 500 companies just showing
headphones, ear buds and cases, luggage.. An incredible sensory overload. My feet were-are
dead and I was wearing convention shoes!
I went to check out the Smart Glasses from Epson, Lumus, Pivothead, Moverio, optic wash
(eyeglass washing machine), Sony, Vuzix, Innovega (smart contact lens) XOeyetc, Glassup,
Optinvent, Oculus.. the list goes on…
Eye Bogglers
 By 2017 There will be 169.5 million wearable wireless devices on the market worldwide.
 About 1/2 of those devices will be health focussed.
 More than 52% of a survey takes said privacy or security of their personal data was of
primary concern.
 One in three consumers say they have heard of wearable fitness trackers, and among
those consumers 28 percent say they are likely to buy a device
 29% of consumers are aware of smart glasses and among them, one-in-five say they
expect to buy the device. Among early adopters, smart glass awareness is nearly 50%.
Making and receiving calls (19 percent), browsing the web (19 percent), and taking
photos and videos (19 percent) were most commonly cited by likely buyers as sought
after features. (Source)
The Vision Council
 Among consumers aware of smart glasses, 50% say the look/design of the device is
extremely important to their decision to buy the device. Appearance is slightly less
important for smart watches (42 percent) and much lower for fitness trackers (20
percent). (Source)
 By 2015 sales of 3D printed goods and services will hit $3.7 billion worldwide (Wohlers
Associates)
 3D printing will change the scope of all products and services from houses, to cars to
sports to the optical industry. (More at CE.org/FiveTechs
 The First 3D printed Retina Cellshave been done!
We are most likely aware of Google Glass and the applications it is being used for. The future is
unlimited in this arena.. from augmented reality, GPS, tracking health and fitness, driving cars,
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reading email, watching videos, playing games. But most of the Smart Glasses are branching
out into hands-free applications. Reading training manuals, doing things like defusing bombs
(OK, how many times is that going to happen!), safety, enterprise related…..
I looked at Evena which is a wearable device that nurses and other medical professionals wear
that read through the skin to find veins. They have already had calls from ophthalmologist and
plastic surgeons who DO NOT want to find a vein in surgery. Images can also be transmitted to
fundascopes and ophthalmoscopes. This is still in beta testing, but the applications for medical
is huge.
Not only was The Vision Council there to educate on Digital Eye Strain, Joe Zewe
fromEyenavision/Chemstrie went to talk about his Blue Light Frames and Lenses along with of
course Chemistrie magnetic clips.
Joe Zewe of Eynavision trying on Lumus Optical: Offering a new way of living, working,
communicating and viewing content (including Internet, email, video and video games)
anywhere and anytime. You can put an Rx in these.
The question arises, is this an opportunity for eyecare professionals?
 Could you set up a Tech Center with such products as Vuzix, Pivothead? Moverio? If
you think about it.. setting up a Tech Center will not only engage the patient and
increase the talk factor. I mean who would not try them on? It opens up a new a new
dimension and market and helps eyecare professionals be profitable.
 The use of Premium Lenses, tints and especially blue light.. every consumer should
have at least one computer glass.
 Eye Yoga classes.. why not?
While I don’t see smart glasses going mainstream over the next year, they will get better
looking, the technology will be better and the pricing will come down to be affordable.
Something to think about.
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Sore eyes shouldn’t look toward electronic devices
The Oracle
1/14/2014
By: Alex Rosenthal
If you’ve been looking at your phone or working on a computer and noticed your eyes started
hurting, a recent report by the Vision Council suggests you are probably one of 70 percent of
U.S. adults who experience some form of eye strain due to prolonged use of electronic devices.
Symptoms associated with this new widespread occurrence include dry eyes, blurred vision,
headache and pain around the neck and shoulders caused by daily use with devices such as
laptops, televisions and smartphones.
The report states that an estimated 2.35 billion personal computers and mobile phones were
shipped globally in 2013, with an increasing percentage of adults who spend 10 or more hours
in front of the screen.
While this study by the Vision Council explains a common discomfort among many, it also offers
a solution. Experts say the strain on the eyes because users don’t blink as much when reading
on screen, so the solution would be to blink every 10 seconds or take a break every 20 minutes.
Other experts suggest a more technological solution: special lenses made for looking at
screens, an item displayed at the most recent International Consumer Electronics Show.
Another solution entirely is one that could be applied to not just those with sore eyes, a
distressing epidemic that is bound to tear apart families across the world, but also for anyone
spending an excess amount of time on electronic devices.
The solution: Switch the power button off. Log off Facebook. Take a walk outside instead of
watching Netflix. Go out and experience the real world, not the virtual one.
It is appalling to think that there is an emerging market of eyewear to keep people attached to
computers and fight the body’s response to look away and take a break. This scenario is one
that science fiction writers have had nightmares about, one that can repulse even the new
generation, seen in Pixar’s “WALL-E.”
At what point will society stop and realize this technologic trend and its effects on either our
health or society?
It is understandable to get caught up in the digital age of convenience and social networking,
but is the technological wonder really worth the inconvenience? It may seem moderate and
unnoticed at first, but a possible series of remedies to fix the problems caused by new
inventions only lead to a downward slope of more problems down the line.
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Give Your Eyes a Break From Digital Eye Strain
Dr. Amy Walden & Associates
1/14/2014
Amy Walden
Many individuals have a daily routine that goes like this: Wake up and check your smartphone
for emails, text, tweets, etc. Next you might put your TV on to see the weather or news while
you get ready for work. When you get to work many individuals are stuck at the computer for a
full eight hours. After work, you crash and burn again with some additional TV while multitasking
on your iPad or smartphone. You might not be thinking about it at the time – but with each
device you are using – you are putting strain on your eyes.
Recently, there was a surrey done by the Vision Council that said 70 percent of users of digital
media devices reported eye discomfort. Most of this eye discomfort is because when using
these screens, we don’t blink as much and our eyes end up drying out.
To help your eyes, Amy Walden and Associates have some suggestions:
Limit the amount of time you spend in front of these screens.
Many business professionals spend the majority of their days in front of a desktop computer. By
the end of the work day itself, this can add up to six to eight hours a day! Give your eyes a rest
and spend your time outside of the office doing activities such as exercising, cooking, or
reading.
Take breaks in between usage.
While using your digital device, stop your eyes from constant strain by taking a break. Go get
some fresh air and get in some fitness by going for a quick walk.
Position your screens appropriately
If you are using a small screen, make sure it is positioned below eye level to get rid of the
terrible glare from the screen.
Look away occasionally
If you are in the situation in which you have to use the computer, tablet, or phone all day – make
sure you take a quick look around the room for 20 seconds every 20 minutes. This will break up
the strain on your eye by allowing your focus to shift elsewhere – reminding your eyes to take in
a few extra blinks.
Tried these strategies and they haven’t helped? Come in to see one of our Indianapolis or
Noblesville Optometrists and we’ll do a comprehensive eye exam to examine your overall eye
health.
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Tackling Digital Eye Strain in Today’s Digital World
Set Your Sights
1/14/2014
http://www.setyoursights.com/life/tackling-digital-eye-strain-in-todays-digital-world
Doctors around the world are becoming more and more familiar with a new health condition that
is sweeping the globe – digital eye strain, otherwise known as computer vision syndrome. This
type of strain affects an alarming 50-90 percent of computer users, and according to Web MD,
some estimates attribute more than 10 million primary care physician eye exams a year to this
problem.
So why does this happen? Well, there are a few reasons. People tend to hold mobile devices
closer to their eyes than books or newspapers. And the same Web MD research indicates that
people also tend to blink less when looking at a computer screen than normal. Blinking is a
natural way to refresh your eyes. By doing it less often, people can experience dry, tired, itching
and burning eyes that can become a nuisance and can even impact your ability to work.
WE HAVE ENOUGH VISION CHALLENGES!
If you’re living with vision impairment, you have enough on your plate when it comes to your
sight. The last thing you need is another factor contributing to poor eyesight or eye discomfort.
But in today’s digital world, using technology is often a life line for the vision impaired.
Accessible technologies can make your life with vision loss easier and open new doors to things
that may not have been possible before. So how do we combat digital eye strain and not add to
our vision challenges?
UNDERSTANDING THE MECHANICS OF DIGITAL EYE STRAIN
Researchers have begun to explore the causes of digital eye strain, and ergonomics experts are
coming forth with practical solutions to try to prevent it. A few quick tips to ensure your digital
eye strain is kept to a minimum:
Lighting & Glare: Poor lighting and consistent screen glare is a known cause of digital eye
strain. A report from The Vision Counsel suggests adjusting the colour of your screen to
something more muted, like a cooler grey. Adjusting the screen brightness in your computer
settings to a moderate level can also help. You can also dim the surrounding lighting around
your computer screen. Bright light can compete with the brightness of your computer screen,
causing increased eye strain.
Keep Your Distance: People are more likely to hold mobile devices closer to their eyes than
non-digital items like books or newspapers. But holding screens too close can lead to eye strain.
Be conscious of how close you’re holding your mobile device to your eyes. If you find that
moving your device further away from your eyes makes it harder to see, try increasing the
device’s font size in your settings. When it comes to your computer screen, Apple recommends
keeping your eyes at least 45 to 60 centimetres away.
Remember the 20-20-20 Rule: An easy way to remember how and when to take care of your
vision when using technology is to follow the 20-20-20 rule. So what does this mean? It’s a
process every 20 minutes that helps you control the eye strain you might experience by looking
at a computer screen. First off, you should take a break from looking at a screen every 20
minutes. The second 20? When you take your break, try to stand up at look at something at
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least 20 feet away (that’s about 6 meters). And lastly, during your break make sure that you take
at least 20 seconds to look away from your computer screen.
Mashable sparked some interest in the vision community in February, when they reported on an
experimental website by Croatian designer Marko Dugonjić that uses responsive typography to
make computer screens easier and more comfortable to read. The website uses your
computer’s web cam to sense your distance from the computer screen and keep a record of
your movements. It then automatically adjusts the size of the text on your screen to the optimal
viewing size based on this information.
The site is still in beta, so it’s not completely live and functioning just yet, but it’s an exciting
glimpse into the possible future of preventing digital eye strain caused by technology…through
technology.
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The Vision Council Advances Technology for Healthy Eyes and Eyewear
TPN.tv
1/15/2014
http://tpn.tv/2014/01/15/the-vision-council-advances-technology-for-healthy-eyes-and-eyewear/
The Vision Council is a not for profit that is dedicated to really focusing in on all of the things that
we can do to make our lives better through glasses. Maintaining healthy eyes through better
designed eyewear is a passion for them. Chris Montera, guest correspondent for the Health
Tech Weekly podcast chats with Mike in the Vision Council booth at the International CES show
this year and they discuss how people can improve their eye health with the use of new, hightech coatings for their corrective lenses, prolonging their eyesight.
One of the big things today in eye care is what they call HEV or High Energy Violet light.
Studies have shown that there’s a correlation between that and age-related macular
degeneration by not blocking that light range out. Many of our computer screens put out a lot of
this blue light range and it can cause damage to your eyes if it’s not filtered out by your lenses.
Even people who do not use glasses could benefit through the long-term use of an HEV coating
on a set of clear, non-corrective lenses to protect their eyes before the deterioration begins.
You can find out more about this and other initiatives from the Vision Council at their website,
TheVisionCouncil.org. There you’ll find the latest in eyewear technology and eye health from
this trade group representing your local eye care professionals in your communities.
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How Many Americans Experience Digital Eye Strain
Review of Optometric Business
1/15/2014
By: Carole Burns
http://www.reviewob.com/how-many-americans-experience-digital-eye-strain.aspx
It seems that eventually all of us will suffer from digital eye strain if we aren’t already, findings
from The Vision Council’s 2014 Digital Eye Strain Report suggest. Nearly 70 percent of
American adults experience some form of digital eye strain due to prolonged use of electronic
devices including desktop and laptop computers, smartphones, tablet or e-readers, television
and video game consoles, according to the report.
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Associations Now (ASAE newsletter)
Survey: 70 Percent of Adults Report Digital Eye Strain
1/15/2014
By: Emma Beck
New research finds that an overwhelming number of U.S. adults experience digital eyestrain.
Perhaps more surprising: Many have never tried to lessen the discomfort or don’t know how.
Raise a brow. And then blink.
A recent survey released by the Vision Council finds that 70 percent of American adults
experience eyestrain while using digital devices, but 41 percent say they don’t know how to, or
have never tried to, reduce the discomfort.
“The eye is not equipped to look at digital screens for extended periods of time,” Justin Bazan,
the Vision Council’s optometrist and medical adviser, said in a statement. “Focusing on objects
at an intermediate distance—like a computer or smartphone—ultimately fatigues the eyes’
focusing system and causes strain. These experiences might be common, but they are not
normal.”
The Vision Council, a global organization that represents the optical industry, defines eyestrain
as temporary discomfort caused by two or more hours of staring at a digital screen, according to
the group’s website. Digital eyestrain symptoms include dry, red, irritated, or fatigued eyes;
headaches; and back, neck, or shoulder discomfort.
Feeling a little strain after reading that last paragraph? Try blinking.
DAMAGE, SIGHT UNSEEN
We’re surrounded by screens—the Vision Council estimates that 2.35 billion digital devices
were shipped globally in 2013—so it makes sense that we’re looking at them constantly.
According to the group’s survey [PDF], an online poll of 7,160 people last October, 93 percent of
respondents said they spend at least three hours a day looking at a digital screen. Some 32
percent said they spend between six and nine hours a day in front of a screen, while another 28
percent put their use at 10 hours a day or higher.
Likewise, it makes sense that younger adults, who use technology at a higher rate, are affected
more: Some 45 percent of adults age 18 to 34 report digital eye soreness, the study states, a
higher rate than among older survey subjects. With younger adults more likely to check work
emails and text messages outside of the office, according to an American Psychological
Association study, their eyes might seldom catch a break.
It’s a digital problem with physical consequences. High-energy visible (HEV) light, better known
as blue light, can place heavy stress on the eye for users in front of the screen for two or more
hours per day. HEV light’s harmful impact on the retina can yield serious eye disorders, such as
cataracts and age-related macular degeneration.
Despite this, the study suggests that 63 percent of U.S. adults are unaware of HEV’s damaging
effects.
STEPS YOU CAN TAKE
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The Vision Council offers a number of suggestions to protect the eye from strain and more
serious problems related to heavy screen use. Among its recommendations:
The 20-20-20 rule: Take a 20-second break every 20 minutes of screen time and focus on
something 20 feet away. The free Mac application Dejal Time Out and the PC program
Workrave can remind you when it’s time to take a break.
Bigger is better: Increase your computer’s text size and browser windows to make text easier to
see.
Lights on: Make sure your computer station and screen are well lit.
Blink: It helps water the eyes and reduce dryness.
Ultimately, fighting digital burnout—eyestrain included—can significantly benefit your physical
health and work productivity. It’s something to keep an eye on.
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Precautions Can Alleviate Digital Eye Strain
Times Record
By: Scott Smith
1/19/2014
Television screens aren’t the only culprits now causing eye strain for millions of people.
The screens on computers, iPads, iPhones and other devices found in today’s technologydriven world can be the sources of eye problems, which some optometrists and other experts
are labeling as “digital eye strain.”
Children and adults “never seem to take a break” from viewing computer screens, Tablet
screens and TV screens, adding to an already growing problem, said Dr. Steven B. Stiles, an
optometrist with the Eye Group in Fort Smith.
“It used to be called Computer Vision Syndrome, but now, with all of the tablets, cellphones and
other items with screens out there, it’s called Digital Eye Strain,” Stiles said. “We see patients
who work on their computers and look at their tablets all day, and then they go home and do
that at night.
“There is the Vision Council, which is an advocate group for vision problems,” he added. “The
Vision Council has reported that 70 percent of people have eye strain from computers and other
devices. That’s a lot of people.”
Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain include dry eyes, redness in the eyes, eye fatigue, headaches
and squinting, he said. Individuals also can have difficulty focusing their eyes if eye strain has
occurred, and, in some rare instances, the individual’s perception of color can be temporarily,
slightly altered, Stiles said.
“It is rare, but yes, the way a person sees color and color saturation could be a little different,”
he said. “There’s no proof that it’s really damaging to the eye, except for it causing eye strain,
fatigue, irritation and dryness, but it’s just unreal the amount of time some people spend in front
of a computer screen.”
Despite the necessity for computer screens, people can take some easy steps to limit the
amount of eye strain, Stiles said. One of the easiest ways to reduce eye strain is to follow what
optometrists call the “20-20-20 Rule,” he said.
“We recommend to someone that every 20 minutes, they look 20 feet away for at least 20
seconds,” Stiles said. “Looking at far distances relaxes the eyes. Think of it like yawning –
looking away is like stretching your eyes in a good way.”
Stiles said everyone should take breaks from their computer, tablet and TV screens. Walking
into another room for a few minutes is always a good habit while at work and play, he said.
“Looking up close forces you to focus more, and to do that, that’s more strenuous,” Stiles said.
“People intently look at computers now.”
A report from www.news-medical.net states eye strain can be reduced or prevented by tilting
the computer screen back between 10 to 15 degrees, which reduces the amount of glare on the
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screen. Glare on the screen can be caused from lights on the ceiling and other nearby lights,
the report states.
“There’s even an app for computers — it’s called EyeDefender — that some people are
recommending,” Stiles said. “This app tells you to blink and rest your eyes.
“And that’s another thing,” he added. “You have to remember to blink while you are watching a
computer screen.”
An individual’s blink rate can decrease by 80 percent of its usual rate, Stiles said. If blinking is
reduced, the person’s eyes will dry out quickly and become irritated, he said.
“If you remember to blink more, that will refurbish your tears and you will be more comfortable,”
Stiles said. “But if you are someone who is hardly blinking at all, well, that is where eye strain
comes in and causes problems.”
Dr. Joseph Followell, an optometrist with the Eye Group in Van Buren, agreed.
“When you’re not blinking enough, you can begin to feel your eyes getting dry,” he said. “There
can even be, sometimes, a burning sensation with the eyes.”
Stiles said some optometrists recommend what’s called “special coatings” on eyeglasses.
These anti-reflective coatings can cost more than $100, but they are a good investment for
people experiencing eye problems, he said.
“These are really sophisticated coatings that actually have rare metals in them,” Stiles said.
“The metals are embedded into the lens, and they become part of the lens, helping reduce
those reflections. They actually let more light into the eye, and that is helping people.”
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The Vision Council promotes digital eye strain precaution at CES
Optometry Times
1/22/2014
http://optometrytimes.modernmedicine.com/optometrytimes/news/vision-council-promotesdigital-eye-strain-precaution-ces#comment-form
Last week, The Vision Council attended the 2014 International Consumer Electronics Show
(CES) in Las Vegas to help users protect their eyes from digital eye strain, a growing health
concern for avid electronic consumers.
Findings of a report examining the impact of digital media on vision health reveal that nearly
70% of U.S. adults experience digital eye strain while on devices such as computers, tablets,
and smartphones. Yet, almost half of adults don't know how to or have never tried to reduce
their visual discomfort.
In an effort to educate avid digital device users, The Vision Council connected with CES
attendees about the benefits of computer glasses and coatings, demonstrating the latest in
computer eyewear technology and teaching additional ways for individuals to minimize digital
eye strain.
"Digital devices are an important part of our everyday lives, as evidenced by the incredible
innovations displayed at CES," said Ed Greene, CEO of The Vision Council. "While our eyes
are not ideally equipped to look at digital screens for extended periods of time, there are simple
precautions that can prevent the discomfort that many Americans experience while using
popular devices—and allow us to continue using these technologies without the risk of digital
eye strain."
Digital eye strain is the temporary discomfort that follows from two or more hours of digital
device use. A variety of consumer electronics can cause digital eye strain, including televisions,
desktop and laptop computers, smartphones, e-readers, tablets, and gaming systems.
Symptoms of digital eye strain include red, dry or irritated eyes, blurred vision, eye fatigue, back,
neck and shoulder pain, and headaches.
Digital eye strain is not caused by one isolated event or behavior. Irritation and discomfort can
be the result of many issues – from the way devices are made to how we use them, even to
how we hold and view them. Eye strain can also be exacerbated in adults who wear prescription
eyewear. Corrective lenses are often times not intended for the mid-distance range of
computers and other electronics.
Nearly 70 percent of U.S. adults experience digital eye strain as a result of the growing use of
these devices. Adults aged 18 to 34 report feeling eye strain at a higher rate (45%) than their
older counterparts. To learn more about the effects digital screens have on your eye health,
read DigitEYEzed: The Daily Impact of Digital Screens on the Eye Health of Americans,
published by The Vision Council in January 2014.
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Digital Eye Strain
ABC News
1/25/14
http://abcnews.go.com/WNT/video/digital-eye-strain-21885398
All that time in front of computers, tablets, and mobile devices may contribute to severe eye
strain.
[Video]
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Digital device use leads to eye strain, even in kids
USA Today
1/25/2014
By: Nancy Hellmich
http://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2014/01/25/digital-eye-strain/4491611/
One day after Sarah Hinkley had been working on her computer for about five hours, she
noticed her eyes started to burn and feel dry. "My focus became blurry, like I was looking
through a haze," she says.
As an optometrist, Hinkley knew exactly what was wrong. She was suffering from digital eye
strain, also known as computer vision syndrome.
It's becoming a widespread problem as more people spend hours each day looking at
computers, cellphones, iPads, tablets and other electronic devices, says Hinkley, a
spokeswoman for the American Optometric Association and an associate professor at the Ferris
State University Michigan College of Optometry. "It is rampant, especially as we move toward
smaller devices and the prominence of devices increase in our everyday lives."
In fact, almost 70% of U.S. adults say they have experienced some of the symptoms of digital
eye strain, according to a survey conducted for the Vision Council, a trade group for vision care
products and services. About 60% of respondents say they spend at least six hours looking at
screens daily.
The problem is starting to occur more frequently in kids, Hinkley says. "As children acquire
cellphones at younger ages and are using them more frequently during the day, we are seeing
the symptoms presenting in younger children more than we have before."
The symptoms may include dry, red and irritated eyes, fatigue, eye strain, blurry vision,
problems focusing, headaches, neck and shoulder pain and possibly even words moving on the
screen because of underlying eye alignment issues, which are binocular vision (how the eyes
work together) problems, she says. The latter is not as common as dry eyes, eye strain and
blurry vision.
There are some people who can use a computer for hours without any issues, but others who
have an underlying dry eye issue may be bothered by symptoms after 10 minutes on the
computer, she says. The syndrome causes discomfort but doesn't typically cause vision loss or
any permanent damage, Hinkley says.
Brooklyn optometrist Justin Bazan, a consultant to the Vision Council, says some research
suggests the blue light (high-energy visible light) emitted by screens could lead to age-related
macular degeneration. Studies of pig eyes show blue light damages the cells of the retina, he
says.
He suggests using a pair of computer glasses that use specifically treated lens to block the
potentially damaging blue light. "This is something I recommend and prescribe for my patients,"
he says. These glasses are different from others prescribed for other daily activities. The
standard anti-reflective coatings do not help prevent the blue light damage, he says.
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James Sheedy, a professor at Pacific University College of Optometry, says that although blue
light can damage the retina, the radiation from digital devices is much less than any daylight
outdoor environment. Sunglass protection outdoors is much more important.
Hinkley says there is some research evidence that blue light may contribute to macular
degeneration development, but further investigation is needed to explore any connection with
screen use.
In the meantime, there are several approaches to treatment for digital eye strain, Hinkley says.
The primary ones are to limit screen time and/or take frequent breaks. Some people use
artificial tear solutions or other treatments for dryness, and others may need vision therapy
including focusing therapy if they have underlying issues with their focusing or binocular vision
systems. Some people need to train themselves to blink more often, she says.
Digital eye strain can be exacerbated in adults who wear prescription eyewear because
sometimes bifocals and progressive lenses are not ergonomically suited for reading on the
computer, she says. Anyone with symptoms of the problem should make sure their glasses are
optimal for computer work, Hinkley says. They may need glasses with computer lenses or
occupation lenses that work well when they are sitting at the computer.
She recommends indirect lighting on the monitor rather than a lamp pointing at the screen that
may create glare. If your monitor faces a window, you should have it an angle to reduce glare.
Some businesses hire an optometrist to check the work-station ergonomics of their employees
to make sure they are set up for visual efficiency and comfort, Hinkley says.
The Vision Council's medical advisory board offers these tips to prevent or lessen digital eye
strain:











Take a 20-20-20 break: every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at
something 20 feet away.
Adjust the brightness of your device. Consider changing your background color from
bright white to cool gray.
Adjust your screen so it is directly in front of your face and slightly below eye level. Do
not tilt a computer monitor.
Position yourself or your device, so there is sufficient distance between your eyes and
the screen.
Lessen the amount of overhead and surrounding light competing with your device's
screen.
When using a computer, first sit in your chair and extend your arm. Your palm should
rest comfortably on the monitor, as if you're high-fiving the screen.
Keep hand-held devices a safe distance from your eyes and just below eye level.
Increase text size to better define the content on your screen. Use the settings control to
make adjustments that feel comfortable to your eyes.
Remind yourself to blink more often. Staring at a digital screen can affect the number of
times you blink, causing eyes to dry.
Parents should limit the amount of screen time for children and reduce their screen time
in front of children to set healthy standards in the home.
Blink. Breathe. Break.
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Time people say they spend daily on digital devices:
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33%: 3-5 hours
32%: 6-9 hours
28%: 10 or more hours
5%: 2 hours or less
2%: do not use digital devices
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Majority of PC users suffer from digital eye strain, report claims
Chew on Tech
1/27/2014
http://www.chewontech.com/2014/01/majority-of-pc-users-suffer-from.html
Almost 70 percent of consumers in the United States suffer from digital eye strain from
continuous use of electronic devices, according to The Vision Council. As casual consumers
become more comfortable with devices like smartphones and tablets, it seems there is major
concern that digital eye strain will become more prevalent. The term digital eye strain explains
two or more hours using a device with a digital screen - and includes dry, red and irritated eyes,
fatigued eyes, blurred vision, headaches, and back, neck or shoulder pain.
"Digital eye strain has become a large concern for the vision community," said Ed Greene, The
Vision Council CEO, in a statement. "Fortunately, the optical industry has made great strides in
the past year to develop lens technologies that can best address the causes of digital eye strain.
Like other glasses we rely on to read and see clearly, computer glasses are transforming the
way we look at computer and handheld devices."
For better eye health, the "20-20-20" rule: After every 20-minute duration, take a short 20second break while looking at something 20 feet away. When reading text or looking at a
particular screen, either increase font size or zoom in.
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What The Digital Age Is Doing To Your Eyes
KUHF-FM News
1/27/2014
By: Pat Hernandez
http://app1.kuhf.org/articles/1386612628-What-The-Digital-Age-Is-Doing-To-Your-Eyes.html
A new survey finds that overusing digital devices is resulting in a new kind of malady called
digital eye strain. Experts say moderation is the best way to overcome it.
A new report by the Vision Council finds that nearly 70-percent of adults in the U.S. experience
digital eye strain. Yet, almost half of adults don't know how to or have never tried to reduce their
visual discomfort.
"More and more people (are) getting into trouble with the computer. Part of it is also the
increasing supply of digital devices."
Texas optometrist Dr. Albert Pang says digital electronics emit a form of blue light that causes
our eyes to refract. That's when light passes from a fast medium to a slow one.
He says another thing to consider:
"The baby boomer is getting more mature. Our eyes (are) also getting weaker, and then as you
get into life beyond 40, your eye muscles getting weaker, especially doing close-up work."
That focus on objects at an intermediate distance, like a computer or smartphone, ultimately
fatigues the eyes and causes strain.
Pang says the Vision Council found that many Americans average 6-9 hours per day in front of
digital devices.
"And this is more to do with kids. They are actually doing computer games for long stretch of
time. We're talking about 2-3 hours straight, instead of just looking at if for 15 minutes, half an
hour, so the duration increases."
And it's not uncommon for suffers to experience headaches and nagging back pain in addition
to blurred vision.
Dr. Bill Quayle is with Houston Eye Associates, the largest ophthalmology clinic in Texas.
"The computer kind of draws you in. You're just totally unaware of it, it's like a vacuum, kind of
sucking you in and uh, people don't like to stop. They get involved into something and it's just
part of life now for them."
While the optical industry has made great strides to develop lens technologies to address the
causes of digital eye strain:
"We really don't have the studies that really define problems associated with computer use as
clearly as we'd like to have it. Does it really affect macular disease? Does it affect cataracts?
We do know that dryness is a factor, there's no question about that. We know that the
combination is strain, particularly if you're adequately not treated with the proper glasses."
71
Dr. Quayle says you can reduce strain by positioning screens at arm's length, holding handheld
devices below eye-level to eliminate glare, and taking short breaks from looking at screens as
often as possible.
72
Avert Your Eyes!
WOAI
1/27/2014
By: Michael Main
http://www.woai.com/pages/michaelmain.html?feed=436303&article=12005650
Admittedly, there's something ironic about writing a blog post with tips for avoiding digital eye
strain or computer vision syndrome.
The American Optometric Association says nearly 70% of U.S. have experienced some of the
symptoms which include blurry vision, red or irritated eyes, headaches and problems focusing.
About 60% of those people say they stare at computer screens, phone screens, tablets or other
screens for as much as six hours a day.
While most of the problems appear to be temporary there is some research indicating the blue
light emitted by screens can cause actual damage to retinas. Some doctors recommend
patients who spend a lot of time in front of computers wear glasses with lenses coated to block
blue light.
The American Optometric Association does offer some tips to avoiding digital eye strain. The
primary one is the 20-20-20 rule. Take a break every 20 minutes for 20 seconds and stare at
something 20 feet away. You may want to explain what you’re doing to your co-workers so they
don't think you zone out every 20 minutes.
Other tips include blinking a lot, increasing the font size on your device, making sure your
screen is slightly below eye level, and adjusting the brightness of your screen from bright white
to a grayish color.
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Protecting Your Kids Against Eye Strain
Missouri Parent
1/28/14
Eye strain can occur after too much time on a computer, tablet, video games, or too much time
watching TV.
Don’t think you or your child could suffer from eye strain? According to the Vision Council,
neither does 70% of the rest of the population, but it takes as little as two hours a day of looking
at a screen to strain your eyes.
Tips for Preventing Eye Strain:
 Turn down the brightness on your child’s monitor(s)
 Keep the screen clean
 Be conscious of your child’s computer ergonomics (Check out this post from Apple to
learn how)
 Make sure your child takes frequent breaks from the screen
 Use the 20-20-20 Rule: Every 20 minutes, your child should look at something 20 feet
away for 20 seconds
 Set computer screens up 20-26 inches from your eyes and a little bit below eye level
 Avoid glare on screens from competing light sources (windows, desk lamps, bright
overhead lights, etc.)
 Encourage your kids to spend time playing away from their devices
 Limit screen time: Kids shouldn’t spend more than 2 hours or so each day, combined, on
screens
 Take your son or daughter for regular eye exams
Have you or your child experienced eye strain first hand? What suggestions would you offer to
other Missouri parents? Leave a comment today on the Missouri Parent Blog or on our
Facebook Page.
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SIX TIPS FOR HANDLING DIGITAL EYE STRAIN
St. Louis Post-Dispatch
1/29/14
By: Deborah Wiethop
http://interact.stltoday.com/pr/lifestyle/PR012914042515774
In today’s society, it’s rare to find an adult, teen or child who doesn’t come into contact with a
digital computer screen on a frequent basis. People conduct business on desktop and laptop
computers at work, and teens and children use tablet computers in school. Some people use
eReaders to read books and magazine, while others use smartphones to stay connected with
friends by sending text messages and perusing social media sites. It’s great to be living in the
digital age, but looking at a digital screen for hours at a time can wear on the eyes.
According to a recent survey1 from the American Optometric Association (AOA), 85 percent of
parents say their children use an electronic device up to four hours a day. And, in a survey2
conducted by The Vision Council, more than a third of adults in the U.S. say they spend
between four to six hours a day using digital computer devices (14 percent say they spend 10 to
12 hours a day looking at digital screens). With more people of all ages looking at digital
screens for long periods of time each day, one has to wonder how this impacts the health of the
eyes…and if there are any issues associated with the prolonged use of looking at digital
screens. The answer is yes. In fact, digital eye strain is the most common computer-related
repetitive strain injury, exceeding carpal tunnel and tendonitis3.
Digital eye strain is caused by the overuse of digital devices such as computers and
smartphones. Since these electronic devices are designed to be used and held within close
range of the eyes, after a while, the eyes become strained as they continue to refocus to
process the images on the digital screen. According to organizations like The Vision Council,
more than 70 percent of Americans don’t know or don’t believe they are at risk for digital eye
strain; however, anyone who is in front of a digital screen is vulnerable. Red eyes, twitching
eyes, dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, neck pain, decreased productivity and more work
errors, fatigue from staring at a digital screen, and straining to see small fonts and images are
some of the signs and symptoms that occur when experiencing digital eye strain.
Following are some tips for avoiding digital eye strain:
1-Follow the “20-20-20 rule”-Be mindful of the amount of time that is spent looking at a
computer screen without taking a break. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at
something that is 20 feet away. Looking far away relaxes the focusing muscle inside the eye
and reduces eye fatigue.4
2-Reduce glare-People often see reflections from objects around their computer on their
computer screen. Install an anti-glare screen on the computer monitor to reduce glare on the
screen. Cover windows with drapes and blinds, and use a computer hood to block some of the
overhead and peripheral light. Get anti-reflective (AR) coating on eyeglass lenses. AR coating
works by decreasing the amount of light that is reflected off the front and back surfaces of the
eyeglass lenses5.
3-Work in proper lighting-When looking at a digital screen, the surrounding light should be half
as bright as what is typically found in most offices6. Try to position the computer screen so
windows are on the side (instead of in front or behind) the computer screen. If the interior
lighting is an issue, consider reducing the number of fluorescent tubes that are installed above
75
the computer. Consider turning off the overhead fluorescent lights in the office and use lamps
that provide halogen or incandescent lighting, or switch to lower intensity bulbs.
4-Blink often- People tend to blink less often when they look at a computer screen –
approximately one third less often as they normally blink – and a lot of the blinking that takes
place when looking at a digital screen are only partial lid closures7. Blinking less often can
cause the eyes to become dry. To reduce the chances of experiencing dry eyes when looking at
a digital screen, try this exercise: Every 20 minutes, blink 10 times by closing the eyes very
slowly, as if falling asleep8. This will moisten the eyes, and it will also help the eyes refocus9.
5-Revise the work space- When working on a computer, people often look back and forth
between the computer screen and a printed page, which can cause eye strain. To alleviate the
stress and strain on the eyes, put the printed pages on a copy stand that is next to the computer
monitor10. Make sure the paper on the copy stand is well-lit by using a desk lamp. Poor posture
can also lead to problems with clearly seeing a digital screen. Consider purchasing ergonomic
furniture where the computer screen is positioned 20 to 24 inches from the eyes11. The center
of the digital screen should be 10 to 15 degrees below the eyes12.
6-Get a regular comprehensive eye exam - According to the National Institute of Occupational
Safety and Health (NIOSH), computer users should have eye exams once a year. Before the
exam, be sure to measure the distance between the eyes and the digital screen. Share that
measurement with the eye care provider, and remember to let the doctor know how often
computers and smartphones are used. People who have a plan such as Anthem’s Blue View
Vision℠ plan have access to a broad and diverse national network of more than 30,000 doctors
and more than 25,000 locations across the U.S. who offer comprehensive exams that address
digital eye strain.
Although the signs and symptoms associated with digital eye strain can be uncomfortable, there
are a number of easy solutions that can fix this problem. Following one or more of the tips listed
above will relieve the strain that is put on the eyes during this digital era.
76
70% of Adults Report Digital Eye Strain
Discovery Fit and Health blog
1/29/2014
http://blogs.discovery.com/dfh-sara-novak/2014/01/70-of-adults-report-digital-eye-strain.html
We are addicted to our digital devices, whether it’s our lap tops, smartphones, tablets, or video
games--we can’t get enough. And new research shows that our digital addiction is taking a toll
on our vision in the form of digital eye strain. In all, 70 percent of adults report digital eye strain,
a set of symptoms that can include dry eyes, blurry vision, fatigue, and neck and shoulder
cramping.
The survey, released by the Vision Council, a trade group for the makers of eye care products,
warned of serious long-term eye risks as a result of digital eye strain, which can include macular
degeneration and cataracts. The intense stare at screens without enough blinking is particularly
hard on our eyes.
“We don’t blink as much when using screens,” said Dr. Joshua L. Dunaief, associate professor
of ophthalmology at the University of Pennsylvania’s Scheie Eye Institute, reported on NBC
News, “because the blink response is suppressed. So we don’t spread tears across our eyes
and they wind up drying out.”
The survey of 7,160 adults in the U.S. taken online in October, found that 60 percent of
respondents spent at least 6 hours per day looking at screens and 28 percent of respondents
spent 10 hours per day looking at screens.
“I see what I would consider a normal patient population, representative of the average
experience most people are having,” said Brooklyn optometrist Justin Bazan, a paid consultant
to the Vision Council. “And the problem is that they think [such strain] is normal. It’s so common
and pervasive, they consider it a cost of doing business. They don’t know there are things you
can do to prevent it."
Symptoms of Digital Eye Strain






Strained or red eyes
Dry or irritated eyes
Blurred vision
Eye fatigue
Back and shoulder pain
Headaches
Preventing Digital Eye Strain




Blink every 10 seconds or so. Blinking naturally refreshes the eye.
Place the screen 20-26 inches away from your eyes.
Regularly clean your screen because smudges reduce contrast and increase problems
with glare and reflection.
Consider using a glare filter over your screen.
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This is the reality: What happens if you sit at the computer for more than two hours
straight
Bubble News
1/31/2014
http://www.bubblews.com/news/2205890-this-is-the-reality-what-happens-if-you-sit-at-thecomputer-for-more-than-two-hours-straight
Almost 70 % of adults suffer from eye strain and blurred vision after using excess computers ,
tablets and smart phones, American researchers have shown in a study presented Thursday at
the CES Electronics Show in Las Vegas.
People using for two hours without a break , an electronic device that requires eyes face back
pain , blurred vision and headaches , and extensive research have shown that exposure to light
emitted by monitors can cause macular degeneration and cataracts , according to
dailymail.co.uk .
"The eyes are not equipped to view digital screens for long periods of time. These experiences I
may be common, but not normal ," said Justin Bazan , optician and medical consultant for the
Vision Council, which conducted the study .
Vision Council found that Americans spend on average between 6 and 9 hours a day in front of
a digital device, and the number of adults over 10 hours per day in front of these devices grew 4
% last year.
"Focusing the eyes on an object located a term - such as a computer or smart phone - finally
tired eyes focus system and produce voltage (ocular , no) ," he said Justin Bazan .
However, there are ways to reduce the effects of eye strain caused by digital devices. These
methods include positioning the monitor in the arms, maintaining portable devices below eye
level to mitigate the strong glare. Also recommended regular breaks for Resting eyes.
Also currently developing optical solutions for these problems.
"Ocular tension due to digital devices has become a serious concern ( ... ) . Fortunately, the
optical industry has made significant progress in recent years to develop manufacturing
technologies targeting lens causes eye strain. Like other glasses reading and sight glasses for
computer transforms the way we look at computer screens and portable devices, "said , in turn,
Ed Greene, executive director of the Vision Council.
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Best of CES Innovations in Patient Care part 2
Mediccast- Innovations in Patient Care
1/31/2014
http://mediccast.com/innovations/2014/01/best-of-ces-innovations-in-patient-care-part-2/
This week on Innovations in Patient Care, I bring you two more segments recorded at the
International CES conference in Las Vegas. They have a big digital health summit there and
guest host Chris Montera interviewed several innovative companies there with new consumer
health focused products and services.
Two Company’s Improving Patient Care with Tech
First off is an interview Chris did with Asthma management company Isonea. They’ve
developed an app that helps asthma sufferers manage and track their attacks using their
smartphone device.
Next up is an interview with the folks from the Vision Council. They are a group representing
eye health professionals that is this year focusing on the importance of reducing eye-strain
related injury from our ever-increasing use of computer screen. Here’s that segment with Chris
in the Vision Council booth at CES 2014.
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Eye Care Tips Computer Users Must Know
Bold Sky
2/1/2014
http://www.boldsky.com/health/wellness/2014/eye-care-tips-computer-users-must-know20140131125213.html
Eyes are considered as a mirror of the soul that acts as windows to the outside world. Eyes can
express not only your beauty, but also your health. Our lifestyle has a great role in determining
the health of the eyes. There are many people who have to work with computers and cannot
escape from it. Taking good care of eyes is very important in keeping it healthy, especially if you
are a person who uses computers for long hours continuously. Strain is the most common factor
that contributes to the discomfort that you feel after a full day's work in front of the computer.
This can occur due to various reasons like being too close to the screen, glare of the screen
from the window, blurred letters on the screen, uncomfortable eye level with the screen or
constant staring on the screen for a long time.
Since it is not possible to skip being in front of the computer while you work, the next best option
is to take care of your eyes. Here are some easy eye care tips while working on computer that
will help you to avoid computer eye strain.
Take a break: Staring at the screen without blinking your eyes will cause the eyes to dry up. It is
one of the recommended eye care tips while working on computer to avoid computer strain.
Palming: Rub your palms against each other till you feel it warm. Keep your palm on your eyes
for 60 seconds. This will help you relax your tired eyes. Repeat this two or three times till you
feel tranquil.
Adjust the eye level: Whether it is television or computers, adjusting the screen to eye level is
very important in keeping your eyes healthy. It is one of the most important eye care tips while
working on the computer.
Follow the 20-20-20 rule: This exercise will help you relax while working for long hours in front of
computers. Look away from your computer screen every 20 minutes and gaze at any distant
object at least 20 feet away for at least 20 seconds. Keep the contrast: Choose dark letters and
light background on the screen while you are working on your computer. This is one among the
most practical eye care tips while working on a computer.
Avoid glare: It is important to work in an atmosphere where there are proper light settings. If you
are wondering how to avoid computer strain, keep the computer where there is no glare from
the window or the tube-lights.
Reduce brightness: Work on your computer only after reducing the brightness to a comfortable
level. Increased brightness will make your eyes strain more. This is another point among the
useful list of eye care tips while working on a computer.
Go green: Green is considered as the best colour to keep your eyes relaxed. Look outside your
window in between your work. If you wonder how to avoid computer strain when your workplace
is inside four walls, just set a green wallpaper on your screen.
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Blink frequently: One of the most effective eye care tips while working on a computer is to blink
your eyes every now and then. This will help keep the natural moisture of tears in your eyes and
avoid dryness and other associated problems.
Consider computer glasses: As the name indicates, computer glasses are made specifically for
people who work in front of a computer. If you want to know how to avoid computer eye strain,
then this will help you by reducing glare, increasing clarity, and relaxing your eyes.
81
Dry eye often cause of computer vision syndrome
Business Recorder
2/1/2014
By: Parvez Jabri
http://www.brecorder.com/top-news/109-world-top-news/155913-dry-eye-often-cause-ofcomputer-vision-syndrome.html
As computers become part of our everyday life, more and more people are experiencing a
variety of ocular symptoms related to computer use.
These include eyestrain, tired eyes, irritation, redness, blurred vision, and double vision,
collectively referred to as computer vision syndrome, said Dr Rajeev Kumar, Specialist
Ophthalmologist, Zulekha Hospital, Sharjah, Khaleej Times reported.
However, the major contributor to computer vision syndrome symptoms by far appears to be dry
eye. The visual effects of various display characteristics such as lighting, glare, display quality,
refresh rates, and radiation are also part of the problem.
Treatment requires a multidirectional approach combining ocular therapy with adjustment of the
workstation. Proper lighting, anti-glare filters, ergonomic positioning of computer monitor and
regular work breaks may help improve visual comfort.
Lubricating eye drops and special computer glasses help relieve ocular surface-related
symptoms. More work needs to be done to specifically define the processes that cause
computer vision syndrome and to develop and improve effective treatments that successfully
address these causes.
It is shown that the most important factor leading to the syndrome is the angle of gaze at the
computer monitor. Pain in computer users is diminished when gazing downwards at angles of
14 degrees or more. The Computer Vision Syndrome (CVS) remains an under-estimated and
poorly understood issue at the workplace. The general public, health professionals, the
government, and private industries need to be educated about the CVS.
CVS is defined by the American Optometric Association as a complex of eye and vision
problems related to the activities which stress the near vision and which are experienced in
relation, or during, the use of the computer. During the consultations we hear frequent
complaints of eye-strain, asthenopia, headaches, blurred distance and/or near vision, dry and
irritated eyes, slow refocusing, neck and backache, photophobia, sensation of diplopia, light
sensitivity, and double vision, but because of the lack of information, we overlooked them too
easily, without going thoroughly into the real motives.
82
CNN
2/3/2014
By: Dr. Edward Kondrot
http://www.cnn.com/2014/02/03/health/digital-eyestrain/
Our lives have increasingly become more digital today. While some may see this as a benefit,
others are finding that it can literally be a pain in the eye.
Digital eyestrain is now a common problem. Eye and vision problems are reported in 70 to 75%
of computer workers, according to the American Optometric Association.
Headaches, eye pain, redness, watering, double vision and loss of focus are all associated with
digital eyestrain.
The good news is there are numerous things you can do to help avoid the condition, including:
Take a break. Take frequent 15 minute breaks and focus your eyes on a distant object across
the room. This will give the focusing muscle a chance to relax.
Try palming. This is essentially meditation for the eyes. To do this, you will close your eyes and
place the centers of your palms over your eyes. Take deep slow breaths and relax your eye
muscles.
Your smartphone and your eyes
This is a wonderful way to rejuvenate your eyes during those long computer projects. Keep your
shoulders and neck relaxed. Tension in this area will cause a tension in your eyes. An
occasional neck and shoulder massage will also work wonders.
Blink frequently. When doing demanding digital work, your blink rate decreases. A conscious
effort should be made to blink lightly every 10 to 15 seconds. This will coat the cornea, or front
part of the eye, to nourish your eye with oxygen and nutrients -- and the coating of tears will also
sharpen your vision.
Wear computer glasses. Use a pair of computer glasses and work at the proper distance -- 20
to 28 inches, depending on the focal point of the eye. Computer glasses have a different focal
point than reading glasses. This will reduce the effort of focusing and putting a strain on your
eyes. The extra effort to focus will cause tension in the eye muscles, which in addition to
causing eye discomfort can lead to an increase in eye pressure.
Your smartphone is a pain in the neck
Keep your monitor bright. This will reduce the flicker rate of the computer and reduce fatigue.
Flickering can lead to eyestrain and headaches. A bright monitor causes the pupil to constrict
and a greater range of focus will result. This will reduce the need for your eye to accommodate
and enable you to work longer with more comfort.
Reduce blue light at night. A Harvard study revealed that blue light at night negatively reduces
melatonin levels, which have a serious adverse health effect. It is associated with an increased
incidence of diabetes, obesity and cancer. Reduce computer time at night or wear blue blocking
glasses. These will block out the harmful blue spectrum light at night.
83
Take vitamins and minerals. Considering that the eyes have one of the highest energy
requirements in the body, it is important that they get proper amounts of vitamins and minerals.
It is important to opt for a vitamin that offers key antioxidants and ingredients that will help
improve the health of the eye and reduce eyestrain. Those can include vitamins A, C, and E
with a B complex and zinc.
Homeopathy. Speak with a practitioner to find a level of therapy that will work for your individual
circumstances. One of the most common homeopathic remedies to treat eyestrain is Ruta
Graveolens, a common ornamental plant found in gardens that is used to treat strains of
tendons. This remedy can greatly reduce the symptoms of eyestrain during prolonged computer
use.
Increase the light. Not having a light on when you are using the computer (or television) can put
more of a strain on your eyes. Be sure to have a light on to help reduce the strain.
Check your computer's position. The position of your computer can add to your eyestrain. It is
important that it is positioned a good distance away, around 20-28 inches from the eye, and that
there are no glares on it. Re-position your computer to provide maximum eye comfort.
Following the tips above can help reduce your chances of getting digital eyestrain. You will feel
better and be able to work longer.
84
WellPoint Offers Six Tips for Handling Digital Eye Strain
The Wall Street Journal
2/4/2014
http://online.wsj.com/article/PR-CO-20140204-903963.html
In today's society, it's rare to find an adult, teen or child who doesn't come into contact with a
digital computer screen on a frequent basis. People conduct business on desktop and laptop
computers at work, and teens and children use tablet computers in school. Some people use
eReaders to read books and magazine, while others use smartphones to stay connected with
friends by sending text messages and perusing social media sites. It's great to be living in the
digital age, but looking at a digital screen for hours at a time can wear on the eyes.
According to a recent survey(1) from the American Optometric Association (AOA), 85 percent of
parents say their children use an electronic device up to four hours a day. And, in a survey(2)
conducted by The Vision Council, more than a third of adults in the U.S. say they spend
between four to six hours a day using digital computer devices (14 percent say they spend 10 to
12 hours a day looking at digital screens). With more people of all ages looking at digital
screens for long periods of time each day, one has to wonder how this impacts the health of the
eyes...and if there are any issues associated with the prolonged use of looking at digital
screens. The answer is yes. In fact, digital eye strain is the most common computer-related
repetitive strain injury, exceeding carpal tunnel and tendonitis(3) .
Digital eye strain is caused by the overuse of digital devices such as computers and
smartphones. Since these electronic devices are designed to be used and held within close
range of the eyes, after a while, the eyes become strained as they continue to refocus to
process the images on the digital screen. According to organizations like The Vision Council,
more than 70 percent of Americans don't know or don't believe they are at risk for digital eye
strain; however, anyone who is in front of a digital screen is vulnerable. Red eyes, twitching
eyes, dry eyes, blurred vision, headaches, neck pain, decreased productivity and more work
errors, fatigue from staring at a digital screen, and straining to see small fonts and images are
some of the signs and symptoms that occur when experiencing digital eye strain.
"In our fast-paced society, most people use a computer throughout the day while they're at
work, and they also go online to communicate with friends, read books, and even pay bills," said
Dr. Richard Hom, optometric director for WellPoint. "It's just the way we operate in the 21(st)
century. Nevertheless, people can stay digitally connected and also maintain the health of their
eyes."
Dr. Hom suggests the following tips for avoiding digital eye strain:
1-Follow the "20-20-20 rule"-Be mindful of the amount of time that is spent looking at a
computer screen without taking a break. Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break and look at
something that is 20 feet away. Looking far away relaxes the focusing muscle inside the eye
and reduces eye fatigue.(4)
2-Reduce glare-People often see reflections from objects around their computer on their
computer screen. Install an anti-glare screen on the computer monitor to reduce glare on the
screen. Cover windows with drapes and blinds, and use a computer hood to block some of the
overhead and peripheral light. Get anti-reflective (AR) coating on eyeglass lenses. AR coating
works by decreasing the amount of light that is reflected off the front and back surfaces of the
eyeglass lenses(5) .
85
3-Work in proper lighting-When looking at a digital screen, the surrounding light should be half
as bright as what is typically found in most offices(6) . Try to position the computer screen so
windows are on the side (instead of in front or behind) the computer screen. If the interior
lighting is an issue, consider reducing the number of fluorescent tubes that are installed above
the computer. Consider turning off the overhead fluorescent lights in the office and use lamps
that provide halogen or incandescent lighting, or switch to lower intensity bulbs.
4-Blink often- People tend to blink less often when they look at a computer screen -approximately one third less often as they normally blink -- and a lot of the blinking that takes
place when looking at a digital screen are only partial lid closures(7) . Blinking less often can
cause the eyes to become dry. To reduce the chances of experiencing dry eyes when looking at
a digital screen, try this exercise: Every 20 minutes, blink 10 times by closing the eyes very
slowly, as if falling asleep(8) . This will moisten the eyes, and it will also help the eyes
refocus(9).
5-Revise the work space- When working on a computer, people often look back and forth
between the computer screen and a printed page, which can cause eye strain. To alleviate the
stress and strain on the eyes, put the printed pages on a copy stand that is next to the computer
monitor(10) . Make sure the paper on the copy stand is well-lit by using a desk lamp. Poor
posture can also lead to problems with clearly seeing a digital screen. Consider purchasing
ergonomic furniture where the computer screen is positioned 20 to 24 inches from the eyes(11)
. The center of the digital screen should be 10 to 15 degrees below the eyes(12) .
6-Get a regular comprehensive eye exam - According to the National Institute of Occupational
Safety and Health (NIOSH), computer users should have eye exams once a year. Before the
exam, be sure to measure the distance between the eyes and the digital screen. Share that
measurement with the eye care provider, and remember to let the doctor know how often
computers and smartphones are used. People who have a plan such as WellPoint's Blue View
VisionSM plan have access to a broad and diverse national network of more than 30,000
doctors and more than 25,000 locations across the U.S. who offer comprehensive exams that
address digital eye strain.
Although the signs and symptoms associated with digital eye strain can be uncomfortable, there
are a number of easy solutions that can fix this problem. Following one or more of the tips listed
above will relieve the strain that is put on the eyes during this digital era.
86
WARNING: Staring at Lee Min Ho too long may hurt your eyes
Drama Fever
2/6/2014
By: Nancy Z
Do you stop to blink when you watch Lee Min Ho on DramaFever? For your sake, we hope you
do. A new survey finds that 70 percent of people who are glued to the screens of their
multimedia devices experience eye discomfort, or "digital eye strain," from staring too long
without blinking.
People who watch online programming on their desktop or laptop PCs, tablets, video game
consoles, phones and digital TVs, tend to stare for a long time without blinking. This intense
stare is part of what makes the screens of these devices so hard on the eyes. The digital eye
strain can even be found in kids.
Symptoms of "digital eye strain" can include dry eyes, blurry vision, fatigue, back, neck or
shoulder pain, and headaches. The survey was released by the Vision Council, a trade group of
eye care products, and it gives stern warnings of serious long-term eye risk, including macular
degeneration and cataracts.
The survey of over 7000 adults in the United States in October 2013 found:
 60% of respondents said they spend at least 6 hours looking at screens daily, and 28%
report viewing screens for 10 hours or more.
 Adults are most likely to experience digital eye strain in the early evening ( 6 to 9 p.m.)
 63% of adults do not know that electronics emit high-energy visible or blue light.
 41% of adults have never tried, or don't know how to, reduce digital eye strain.
The Vision Council gives the following recommendations:
 Adjust the brightness of your device. Consider changing your background color from
bright white to cool gray.
 Keep enough distance between your eyes and the screen.
 Keep handheld devices at a safe distance from your eyes and just below eye level.
 Consider wearing computer eyeglasses to help focus while in front of a digital screen.
 Build an "eye-gonomic" workspace to mitigate outside stressors.
Remember the 20-20-20 Rule:
 Every 20 minutes, take a 20-second break from the screen and look at something 20
feet away.
Also, remember to blink! Yes, according to eye doctors, you need to blink lightly every 10 to 15
seconds.
It's hard to look away from him, but I'm sure Lee Min Ho won't mind you blinking and taking the
20-20-20 break so that your eyes stay healthy and you can keep watching him and his dramas
for a long, long time.
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5 Reasons Why Cellphones Are Bad For Your Health
Faculty of Medicine
2/6/2014
http://forum.facmedicine.com/threads/5-reasons-why-cellphones-are-bad-for-your-health.17662/
Staring at your mobile device can cause problems in your vision later in life. Screens on mobile
devices tend to be smaller than computer screens, which means you are more likely to squint
and strain your eyes while reading messages. According to The Vision Council, more than 70
percent of Americans don't know or are in denial that they are susceptible to digital eye strain.
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The Eye Condition 70% of Adults Have Without Knowing
My Celebrity and I
2/6/2014
http://www.mycelebrityandi.com/the-eye-condition-70-of-adults-have-without-knowing/
Average people spends 6 to 9 hours every day staring at some type of computer screen,
whether it’s a tablet, a laptop, or a smartphone. And we’re guessing you do, too.
If so, you may join the ranks of the nearly 70% of adults who suffer from “digital eye strain”–a
progressive condition that could eventually lead to serious eye diseases, concludes a new
report from The Vision Council, a nonprofit organization that supports the optical industry.Digital
eye strain is an escalating health issue. Your eyes aren’t made to stare at a fixed point for hours
and hours on end, especially one that emits high-energy visible light, a.k.a., artificial “blue light.”
Overexposure to this type of light–and the fatigue of focusing on the same middle-distant point
for a third or more of your day–can strain your eyes and cause dryness or redness, blurred
vision, “tired” eyes, headaches, and back or shoulder aches in the short term, the report authors
say. (Did you know you can eat for eye-health? Here are Dr. Weil’s top vision-protecting foods.)
Long term, years of staring at a computer could lead to scarring of your cornea and partial loss
of vision, says Clayton Blehm, MD, an ophthalmologist who has published research on
computer vision syndrome. Long hours of screen time can also lead to dry eye disease–or an
inability to manufacture sufficient tears to keep your eyes lubricated, explains Justin Bazan, OD,
a member of the American Optometric Association who also acts as medical advisor to The
Vision Council.
How can you tell if you’re putting too much electronic stress on your eyes? If you find your vision
feels strained, your eyes are watering or red, or you catch yourself rubbing a sore neck,
temples, or shoulders, those are all signs you’re overworking your eyes, Dr. Bazan says.
To give your eyes a break, Dr. Bazan recommends following the 20-20-20 rule; that is, every 20
minutes you should take a break to stare at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Do this,
and you’ll help relieve the strain computer screens put on your peepers. (Need more relief? Try
easy yoga for eyes–seriously.)
If you normally wear glasses, contacts, or reading glasses, talk to an eye doctor about specially
designed computer glasses. “They’re built to bring intermediate distance objects, like a
computer, into focus and cut glare from competing light sources,” he says. Even people who
don’t normally wear glasses may benefit from these types of specs if they spend a lot of time on
a computer, Dr. Bazan adds. And don’t forget to check out 5 more ways to age-proof your vision
for more ways to guarantee clear vision for life.
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Untitled - The Vision Council

Transcription

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