Do Blue-blocking Lenses Reduce Eye Strain From Extended Screen Time? A Double-Masked Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Purpose: To investigate if blue-blocking lenses are effective in reducing the ocular signs and symptoms of eye strain associated with computer use. Design: Double-masked, randomized controlled trial. Methods: A total of 120 symptomatic computer users were randomly assigned (1:1) into a “positive” or “negative” advocacy arm (ie, a clinician either advocating or not advocating for the intervention via a prerecorded video). Participants were further sub-randomized (1:1) to receive either clear (placebo) or blue-blocking spectacles. All participants were led to believe they had received an active intervention. Participants performed a 2-hour computer task while wearing their assigned spectacle i..