Scientists have confirmed that extended periods of detrimental (17) screen exposure can give rise to a variety of vision and neurological disorders. This mounting apprehension (18) has led many technology companies to introduce blue-light filtering solutions or restructure employee work schedules by organising digital wellness sessions, acknowledging (19) the significance of appropriate screen distance and regular eye breaks. Staring at screens for more than eight hours can result in visual complications like retinal strain, and persistent headaches over time. Many software professionals who spend long hours in front of digital screens suffer (20) from these visual impairments. Positioning the screen at eye level without hunching forward and resting the eyes for five minutes every hour can reduce the risk considerably. Prolonged screen exposure can cause disruptions in the visual system including retinal fatigue and deteriorating eyesight. When a patient reports visual difficulties, a/an evaluation (21) is carried out through an eye examination or retinal scan. Rehabilitative (22) exercises are prescribed to address the damage. Patients are additionally advised to attend (23) vision therapy sessions, whenever necessary.

Which of the following words can replace the bold word suffer (20) in the given passage, or does it require no replacement?

The correct answer is straining.

Step-by-Step Explanation:

1. Analyze the Context in the Passage:
The original sentence in the text states: "Many software professionals who spend long hours in front of digital screens suffer (20) from these visual impairments." The passage focuses on eye fatigue, retinal stress, and the visual complications caused by prolonged screen time.

2. Evaluate the Word Choice:
The word straining specifically refers to subjecting the eyes to excessive exertion or tension from prolonged screen viewing. Contextually, replacing "suffer" with "straining" directly describes the physiological stress placed on the vision system when looking at screens for extended hours.

3. Review the Alternative Options:
- No replacement required: While "suffer" conveys general affliction, "straining" provides a more precise description of eye fatigue in this digital wellness context.
- Weakening: Refers to a reduction in physical strength or intensity, which does not fit grammatically or contextually as an active experience.
- Burdening: Means loading someone down with a heavy task or responsibility, which is inappropriate for describing visual symptoms.
- Concealing: Means hiding, which directly contradicts the context of experiencing or showing visual impairments.

Thus, straining is the most suitable replacement word for suffer (20) in the context of extended screen exposure.