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981
Risk Factors for Dry Eye Syndrome: A Retrospective Case-Control Study
Wan-ju Yang1, Yan-Ning Yang, Jin Cao
1*MD †PhD ‡MS Eye Center, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China (all authors); and Department of Ophthalmology, Central Hospital of Wuhan, Tongji Medical College of Huazhong University of Science and Technology, Wuhan, China (W-JY).
Summary
This study identified key risk factors for dry eye syndrome (DES) in Chinese populations, including diabetes and certain medical conditions. Vitamin supplements and omega-3 fatty acids may offer protection against DES.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- Dry eye syndrome (DES) is a prevalent ocular condition with multifactorial causes.
- Understanding specific risk factors in diverse populations is crucial for targeted prevention and management.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify independent risk factors associated with dry eye syndrome (DES) in a Chinese population.
- To explore potential protective factors against DES in this demographic.
Main Methods:
- A hospital-based case-control study involving 789 DES patients and 1119 healthy controls.
- Standard ophthalmologic examinations and a detailed questionnaire on lifestyle habits were employed.
- Univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were used to identify risk and protective factors.
Main Results:
- Significant independent risk factors for DES included diabetes, hepatitis C, connective tissue disease, benign prostatic hyperplasia, rosacea, posttraumatic stress disorder, hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, head and neck radiotherapy, postmenopausal estrogen therapy, antihistamines, antidepressants, contact lens wear, and prolonged video display terminal use.
- Vitamin supplements and a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids were identified as potentially protective factors against DES.
Conclusions:
- Established risk factors for DES are relevant to the Chinese population.
- Dietary factors, specifically vitamin supplements and omega-3 fatty acids, may play a protective role in preventing DES in this population.

