71% of US desk workers report productivity impacts from digital eye strain

VSP Vision Care has released findings from its third annual Workplace Vision Health Report, indicating that US desk workers average nearly 100 hours of screen time per week, with work accounting for a significant share. On weekdays, desk workers report spending 93% of their waking hours looking at screens. According to a news release, 71% say they experience performance impacts due to screen-related visual discomfort, equating to nearly one full workday of lost productivity each week.

The survey, conducted by Workplace Intelligence, included responses from 800 human resource and benefits leaders and 1200 full-time employees at US organizations. For the first time, the research also surveyed non-desk workers, including medical professionals, teachers, construction and manufacturing workers, retail and hospitality staff, and public safety officers. These workers reported an average of 87.6 hours of screen time per week, compared with 99.2 hours among desk workers, up from 97 hours last year.

Screen-related visual discomfort was reported by 71% of desk workers and 59% of non-desk workers. Common symptoms included tired or uncomfortable eyes, blurred or double vision, and difficulty maintaining visual focus after extended screen use. Among those affected, respondents reported an average 18.6% reduction in productivity, or approximately 7.4 hours per week. One in four employees said they had taken time off due to discomfort associated with extended screen use, averaging 4.5 days annually.

The report also found that 34% of workers said their company encourages eye breaks, and 32% said their employer provides education on minimizing visual discomfort. Meanwhile, 87% of HR leaders acknowledged their company should do more to help employees reduce screen-related visual discomfort.

“Whether working behind a desk or on the go, healthy vision has a direct impact on job performance, and today’s employees expect their employers to provide high-quality, affordable vision care benefits,” said VSP Vision Chief Insurance Officer Dave Plevyak in the release. “By investing in vision benefits and prioritizing eye health, employers can help protect sight, enhance overall wellness, and build a workforce that’s healthier, happier, and more productive.”

“When screen time reaches this level, regular eye care becomes essential—not optional,” said VSP Vision Care Senior Vice President of Clinical and Medical Affairs Valerie Sheety-Pilon, OD, in the release. “Eye doctors are on the front lines of identifying and managing screen-related eye issues, helping workers prevent discomfort before it escalates into productivity loss or broader health issues. Through annual eye exams, personalized guidance, and early detection of vision and health concerns, eye doctors play a critical role in supporting today’s workforce and helping employers build truly eye-friendly workplaces.”

“Managing digital eye strain is a shared responsibility,” added Dan Schawbel, managing partner at Workplace Intelligence, in the release. “In fact, 66% of employees acknowledge that they need to do a better job of managing digital eye strain, for example, by taking more frequent breaks. However, employers have a clear opportunity to strengthen their commitment to their staff by actively supporting them in addressing this issue.”

The full 2026 Workplace Vision Health Report is available online.

Reference

1. New research from VSP Vision Care and Workplace Intelligence finds desk workers spend nearly 100 hours a week on screens, 71% say screen-related visual discomfort is reducing productivity. News release. VSP Vision Care. February 24, 2026. Accessed February 25, 2026. https://www.vspvision.com/newsroom/eye-health-and-wellness/vision-care/new-research-from-vsp-vision-care-and-workplace-intelligence-finds-desk-workers-spend-nearly-100-hours-a-week-on-screens#:~:text=In%20fact%2C%20on%20weekdays%2C%20desk,of%20lost%20productivity%20each%20week.