Background: The rise in digital device usage among children has raised concerns regarding its impact on ocular health and sleep quality. Objective: To assess the association between digital screen exposure and ocular symptoms and sleep patterns among school-going children aged 8 to 15 years. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 250 children from three urban schools. Screen time, sleep patterns, and ocular symptoms were assessed using validated questionnaires including the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and the Children’s Sleep Habits Questionnaire (CSHQ). Results: Of the 250 participants, 72% exceeded recommended screen time (>2 hours/day). Ocular symptoms were reported in 64% of participants, and 48% had poor sleep quality (CSHQ score >41). Longer screen exposure (>3 hours/day) was significantly associated with higher OSDI scores (p<0.001) and disturbed sleep patterns (p=0.002). Conclusion: Prolonged screen time is significantly associated with both ocular discomfort and poor sleep among school-going children. Preventive strategies and parental guidance are critical to mitigate these risks.

Digital Screen, Ocular Health, Sleep Patterns & School-Going Children