Communications Committee
Have you ever heard of the “20-20-20 Rule”? – it might not be what you thought it was!
The “20-20-20 Rule” is an unofficial guideline that optometrists may sometimes use to help patients prevent eye strain and preserve their vision. It requires people to take a break every 20 minutes by looking at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. Dr. Jeffrey Anshel, an optometrist in San Diego, coined the term during his practice in 1991. However, the rule lacks scientific validation.
While the rule may lack evidentiary support for its effectiveness, research shows increased device use has contributed to a rise in digital eye strain and myopia. According to the Canadian Association of Optometrists, staring at a screen reduces our blinking to only 4 times per minute from the average of 17 times per minute. This can lead to symptoms such as headaches, blurry vision, and double vision. Therefore, promoting regular breaks from screens remains beneficial for patient well-being. Doctors of Optometry encourage patients to periodically step away from their devices, or position screens an arm’s length from our eyes and 20 degrees below eye level.
The “20-20-20 Rule” ultimately offers a simple way to remember the importance of taking breaks from digital devices. Although it is not a scientifically proven method of preventing eye disease or illnesses, it is still a useful way for patients to actively avoid eye fatigue and protect their eyesight.
If you have any questions or comments regarding this topic, please email:
communications@optometrists.bc.ca.
References
- Computer Vision Syndrome (Digital Eye Strain)”,Canadian Association of Optometrists, CAO, March 27,2023,https://opto.ca/eye-health-library-computer-vision-syndrome-digital-eye-strain.
- Blehm C et al.Computer vision syndrome: a review.Surv Ophthalmol. 2005;50(3):253-262.
- Digital Eye Strain, BC Doctors of Optometry, BCDO https://bc.doctorsofoptometry.ca/library/digital-eye-strain/