ABSTRACT
The present study was to determine the prevalence of dry eye and its risk factors. In this cross-sectional study of a hospital-based population, there were 309 participants, 48% males and 52% females; 33% students and 68% employees. The data were collected using a structured questionnaire, which included sociodemographic variables, medical history, daily activities and questions for Ocular Surface Disease Index [OSDI]. Of the participants 89 were randomly selected, and Schirmer's test was done on the same day morning and evening, recording their day time activities. Data were analyzed using PASW 17.0, to compare between means paired t-test was done. Chi square test was done to test the association. Prevalence of dry eye was 17.8% by Ocular Surface Disease Index [OSDI] score, and 21.3% among Schirmer's test participants. Former was relatively higher in the 15-34 age group, while by the latter it was higher in the 35-44 age group [33.3%]. 18% females and 17.6% of males had dry eye. Prevalence of dry eye with refractive error is 25.5%. There was a significant association of dry eye with eye problems [p<0.001], usage of glasses [p<0.006] and medication for eye diseases [p<0.002]. Dry eye was significantly higher using OSDI among computer users [p<0.045]. Other activities, contact lens use, family history, work environment, associated medical conditions, and personal habits did not show any significant association with dry eye. There is a high prevalence of dry eye among the students and employees of the hospital under study, more so among those with eye problems, dryness of nose, mouth and throat and computer users. Other activities and factors showed no influence on tear reduction