Dry eye disease (DED), a widespread multifactorial condition affecting the ocular surface, is characterized by a disruption in tear film homeostasis, leading to ocular symptoms, tear film instability, hyperosmolarity, ocular surface inflammation, damage, and neurosensory abnormalities. Defined by the TFOS DEWS II Definition and Classification Subcommittee, its global prevalence ranges considerably from 5% to 50%, with a notable presence in Southeast Asian countries, spanning 20% to 52.4%. This prevalence can escalate to 75% in adults over the age of 40, with a higher incidence observed in women. The underlying pathophysiology of DED is increasingly recognized as chronic ocular inflammation arising from an imbalance in the tear film. Desiccation of the ocular surface, alterations in tear composition and osmolarity, trigger the release of inflammatory mediators and the recruitment of inflammatory cells. These processes initiate the breakdown of cell junctions, epithelial cell death, and destabilization of the tear film, perpetuating a cycle of inflammation that further sensitizes nociceptors. This study delved into exploring the association of digital screen time with DED in patients. A prospective comparative study enrolled 105 patients aged 18-75 years with mild to moderate DED, presenting to the outpatient department of a tertiary eye care center. The diagnosis of DED was based on the presence of signs and symptoms, with symptoms assessed using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire. Signs were evaluated by Tear film breakup time (TBUT), Schirmer’s test (ST) and Corneal Fluorescein staining (CFS). Patients with an OSDI score of >13, TBUT of <10 seconds and Schirmer’s test of <15mm were diagnosed to have DED. Detailed history was taken, and digital screen time was recorded. A comprehensive ocular examination was done, followed by objective tests for DED assessment. The results showed the mean age of the patients was 36.66 years, with the maximum number of patients in the 25-50 years age group. Females were slightly more affected than males. The most common symptoms were gritty/burning sensation, light sensitivity and difficulty in screen work/TV watching. Most patients had moderate DED. The study found that maximum patients had a digital screen time of more than 6 hours, followed by 3-6 hours. DED parameters worsened with increasing age and digital screen time. In conclusion, the study found that mild to moderate DED is common in middle-aged individuals in their 30s and 40s. While factors like increasing age and female gender are known contributors, digital screen time is an emerging risk factor. Higher screen time is more common in younger age groups and is bringing DED to this population. Promoting practices like the 20-20-20 rule and counseling patients about preventative measures and controlling screen time, along with appropriate topical therapy, is important.