A STUDY ON HEARING AND VISION PROBLEMS DUE TO EARPHONE USE AND MOBILE PHONE VIEWING AMONG COLLEGE STUDENTS IN MADURAI CITY

International Journal of Computer Science (IJCS) Published by SK Research Group of Companies (SKRGC)

Abstract

In the present digital era, mobile phones and earphones have become an inseparable part of students’ daily lives. Although they provide convenience in communication, online learning, and entertainment, their excessive and unsafe use has led to growing health concerns. Prolonged earphone usage at high volumes has been linked to hearing-related problems such as tinnitus, discomfort, and partial hearing loss, while extended exposure to mobile phone screens results in vision-related issues such as eye strain, blurred vision, dryness, and headaches. This study was conducted among 100 college students in Madurai City to assess the prevalence and determinants of hearing and vision problems caused by earphone use and mobile phone viewing. A structured questionnaire was used to collect primary data, and secondary information was drawn from research articles, institutional reports, and public health databases. The data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Garrett Ranking Analysis, correlation, regression, and ANOVA to identify significant risk factors and the influence of demographic variables. The findings of the study revealed that duration of earphone usage, volume level, and daily screen time are the most critical contributors to hearing and vision-related health issues. Regression results confirmed that age and gender significantly influence both vision problems and earphone-related problems, while year of study also plays an important role in earphone-related issues. However, the type of degree pursued was not found to be a major determinant. The study concludes that unsafe technology practices are strongly associated with rising health problems among college students, and there is an urgent need to create awareness about safe usage practices. This research provides valuable insights for educators, parents, and policymakers to design effective awareness programs, preventive strategies, and behavioral interventions that can minimize long-term health risks associated with digital device usage among youth.

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Keywords

Earphone Usage; Hearing Problems; Vision Problems; Digital Eye Strain; Mobile Phone Viewing; College Students; Madurai City; Regression Analysis; Garrett Ranking; Technology and Health