New Research Finds Most Adults with Eye Strain Symptoms Skip Professional Care
Tuesday, October 6 2026 | 10 h 38 min | News
A new report from The Vision Council reveals that while symptoms of dry eye and digital eye strain are widespread among U.S. adults, many do not understand their cause—and most never seek professional help. Focused inSights 2026: Dry Eye and Digital Eye Strain is based on a national survey of 1,089 adults, offering a detailed look at how patients perceive and manage screen‑related discomfort.
According to the findings, 78% of respondents experienced eye fatigue after screen use at least once in the past three months. Awareness remains low: 63% have never heard of digital eye strain or know only the term, and half say the same of dry eye disease. Despite these symptoms, 39% have never discussed them with a healthcare professional.
When patients do seek help, eyecare providers play a central role. Respondents identified eye doctors as their top source of information for managing symptoms (40%), and a recommendation from an eyecare provider is the most influential factor when choosing products to treat discomfort (38%).
“Most people in our survey recognize the symptoms of dry eye and digital eye strain, but many don’t know what’s causing them or that an eyecare provider can help,” said Kris Stevens, Vice President of Research at The Vision Council. “Patients already trust their eye doctor more than any other source. The data suggest the most important step is simply starting the conversation during exams that are already happening.”
Access the Report at Academy 2026 Anaheim
The Vision Council will share the report with attendees at Academy 2026 Anaheim, which took place Sept. 30–Oct. 3 at the Anaheim Convention Center. Eyecare professionals who join The Vision Council’s eyecare provider research panel will receive free access to the full report, valued at $3,000. Panel members contribute insights through periodic surveys that help shape industry research.
Free Resources for Eyecare Providers
During Academy 2026, attendees can also explore free, customizable educational toolkits from The Vision Council and The Vision Council Foundation, including:
- Life in Focus kits for patient education
- See What Matters campaign materials
- Monthly social media calendars
- Seasonal toolkits for National Sunglasses Day, Healthy Vision Month, UV awareness and back‑to‑school eye exams
All resources are available online.
Source: The Vision Council
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