<![CDATA[Background: Dry eye syndrome is a multifaceted ocular surface disorder characterized by tear film instability and hyperosmolarity, frequently manifesting as irritation and visual impairment. Recent epidemiological surveillance indicates that approximately 50.4% of high school students engage in four or more hours of daily screen time. Purpose: This study explored the association between digital screen exposure and dry eye prevalence. Methods: This study employed an analytical cross-sectional design to assess medical students at Universitas Sumatera Utara (classes 2021–2023). Using non-probability consecutive sampling based on defined eligibility criteria, data were collected via structured surveys and the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) to evaluate symptoms in relation to daily screen habits. Statistical correlation was analyzed using the Chi-square test. Results: The majority of respondents (87.50%) used smartphones, with 70.50% reporting daily screen time exceeding 8 hours. Consequently, severe dry eye was observed in 55.70% of the study population. Findings indicated that extended screen duration is a significant determinant in the development of dry eye symptoms (p=0.00). Conclusion: There is a significant statistical association between prolonged digital device usage and the incidence of dry eye disease.]]>
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