EPIDEMIOLOGICAL CHARACTERSTICS OF DRY EYE IN ADULTS - “A TERTIARY HEALTH CARE BASED STUDY”
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Abstract
Abstract
Background: Dry eye disease (DED) is a common multifactorial ocular surface disorder that can significantly affect visual function, quality of life, and productivity. Its prevalence and associated risk factors vary across populations and environments.
Aim: To determine the prevalence of dry eye disease and identify associated epidemiological risk factors among adults aged ≥21 years attending the ophthalmology outpatient department.
Materials and Methods: A hospital-based, cross-sectional, observational study was conducted in the Department of Ophthalmology, C.R. Gardi Hospital, Ujjain, Madhya Pradesh, from August 2024 to March 2026. A total of 523 consecutive adults aged ≥21 years were enrolled. Data regarding demographic characteristics, ocular symptoms, systemic illnesses, and other potential risk factors were collected using a structured proforma. All participants underwent comprehensive ophthalmic examination. DED was assessed using the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI), Schirmer test I, tear-film break-up time (TBUT), and corneal sensitivity assessment. Data were analyzed using IBM SPSS Statistics version 23. Categorical variables were compared using the chi-square or Fisher’s exact test, while continuous variables were analyzed using the independent t-test or ANOVA. A p value <0.05 was considered statistically significant.
Results: Among the 523 participants evaluated, 211 of 523 participants were diagnosed with DED. The prevalence of DED was 40.3%. Eye ache, defective vision, watering, redness, and irritation were the most frequently reported symptoms. Significant associations were observed between DED and conjunctival abnormalities and reduced corneal sensation.
Conclusion: DED represents a substantial ocular surface morbidity among adults attending the ophthalmology outpatient department. Identification of associated epidemiological and environmental risk factors, along with systematic assessment using symptom-based and objective tests, may facilitate earlier diagnosis and appropriate management. Awareness of modifiable risk factors may also contribute to prevention and reduction of the burden of DED.
Keywords: Dry eye disease; prevalence; epidemiological risk factors; OSDI; Schirmer test; TBUT; ocular surface.
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