Many U.S. adults experience symptoms associated with digital eye strain but remain unfamiliar with the condition and do not discuss their symptoms with health care professionals, according to new research from The Vision Council.
Focused inSights 2026: Dry Eye and Digital Eye Strain surveyed 1,089 U.S. adults about their experiences and understanding of the conditions. Among respondents who took the online survey from April 13-30, 78% reported experiencing eye fatigue after screen use at least once during the previous three months. However, 63% percent of respondents had either never heard of digital eye strain or knew only its name, while half reported the same level of familiarity with dry eye disease.
Eye Doctors Remain a Trusted Resource
Among respondents experiencing symptoms, 39% had never raised them with a health care professional.
For those seeking information, however, eye care providers were the top source of information about managing symptoms for 40% of respondents. Plus, 38% said an eye doctor’s recommendation was also the most important factor when choosing products to manage symptoms.
“Patients already trust their eye doctor more than any other source,” says Kris Stevens, vice president of research at The Vision Council. “The data suggest the most important step is simply starting the conversation during exams that are already happening.”
Education Available at Academy 2026
The Vision Council is sharing the report this week during Academy 2026 Anaheim, held Sept. 30-Oct. 3 at the Anaheim Convention Center. Eye care professionals who join The Vision Council’s provider research panel will receive complimentary access to the full report. Panel sign up is located at booth 203 or via The Vision Council’s online form.
Academy attendees can also learn about free patient education resources from The Vision Council and The Vision Council Foundation, including Life in Focus kits, See What Matters campaign materials, monthly social media calendars, and seasonal toolkits.