Tran Van Thuan, Deputy Minister of Health, stated at the Sai Gon Medical Group's 2026 scientific and technical conference on 4/7 that artificial intelligence and digital technology are shaping the future of medicine. According to experts, alongside new opportunities in diagnosis and treatment, the digital lifestyle also brings many health issues that require attention, including eye conditions.

Doctor Truong Cong Minh, Deputy Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Medical and Surgical Laser Association and Chief Executive Officer of Sai Gon Le Thi Rieng Eye Hospital, reported that dry eyes are currently one of the most common problems among young people, especially those working in offices.

"Young people today use computers and phones almost all day. When focusing on screens, blinking frequency decreases significantly, making eyes more prone to dryness," the doctor said.

Normally, blinking helps distribute the tear film evenly over the surface of the eyeball, acting as lubrication, protection, and nourishment for the cornea. When blinking frequency decreases, this film quickly becomes unstable. Additionally, air-conditioned environments, fans, or dry air can cause tears to evaporate faster, worsening dry eye symptoms.

Common symptoms include a gritty or stinging sensation, feeling of a foreign object in the eye, mild redness, temporary blurred vision, or rapid eye fatigue when reading or working in front of a screen. Many people are complacent because the initial symptoms are often vague.

Eye examination for a patient at Sai Gon Eye Hospital. Photo: Hospital provided

Many people have a habit of self-medicating with artificial tears when experiencing eye discomfort. According to Doctor Minh, this may be suitable for mild dry eyes but should not be overused. If dry eyes persist or symptoms are severe, patients should seek medical examination for appropriate medication prescriptions.

Dry eyes are also easily confused with other conditions such as conjunctivitis, blepharitis, or meibomian gland dysfunction. Some endocrine disorders can also alter the quality of the tear film, leading to prolonged dry eyes.

At the conference, Doctor Ha Anh Duc, Director of the Department of Medical Examination and Treatment Management (Ministry of Health), emphasized that modern medicine should not only focus on treatment but also promote prevention, early detection, and quality management using data and scientific evidence. The key is not just to cure diseases but also to identify risks early and build proactive health care habits.

To prevent eye conditions, doctors recommend that office workers adopt the 20-20-20 rule: every 20 minutes of screen time, look at an object about 20 feet (approximately 6 m) away for at least 20 seconds. Shifting gaze from near to far helps relax the eyes and stimulates more blinking, reducing tear evaporation. Additionally, avoid directing fans or air conditioners directly at the eyes, adjust room temperature appropriately, and maintain environmental humidity.

Most cases of mild dry eyes cause only discomfort, affecting concentration and work performance. However, if left untreated, severe cases can lead to corneal damage.

Doctor Minh warned that prolonged dry eyes can temporarily reduce vision, and even cause corneal inflammation or ulcers in severe cases, especially in individuals with lagophthalmos (incomplete eyelid closure) during sleep. If dry eyes are severe enough to cause blurred vision or persistent stinging pain, patients need to be examined promptly.

Le Phuong