Study links PC use with glaucoma

Heavy use of computers may be linked to the development of a progressive eye disease, researchers claim.

A study in Japan has found that staring at a screen could be related to glaucoma, which can lead to blindness.

The latest study, by the Toho University School of Medicine, Tokyo, finds the risk is particularly strong for the short-sighted.

Glaucoma is more common in old age and happens when the optic nerve in the eye is damaged, leading to visual abnormalities. The exact causes are unknown.

The researchers questioned 10,000 workers at four Japanese companies with an average age of 43.

The researchers, writing in the Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health, say that those classed as heavy computer users tend to be younger and male.

The team says there appears to be a significant link between visual problems and heavy computer use among those with either long or short sight.

A third of these workers were found to have suspected glaucoma. The researchers conclude: "Computer stress is reaching higher levels than have ever been experienced before."