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Association Between Menstrual Irregularity and Dry Eye Disease: A Population-Based Study
Jae-Yen Song1, Min-Ho Kim, Ji-Sun Paik
1*Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Uijeongbu St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea; †Department of Ophthalmology, Yeouido St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea; and ‡Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Seoul St. Mary's Hospital, College of Medicine, The Catholic University of Korea, Seoul, Korea.
Cornea
|December 20, 2015
Summary
Menstrual irregularity is linked to a higher risk of dry eye disease (DED) in Korean women. This study highlights a potential connection between reproductive health and ocular surface conditions.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology and Reproductive Health
- Epidemiology of Ocular Diseases
Background:
- Dry eye disease (DED) is a prevalent condition affecting ocular surface health.
- Menstrual cycle irregularities can indicate underlying hormonal or systemic health issues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between irregular menstruation and the presence of DED.
- To explore this relationship within a large, population-based cohort of Korean women.
Main Methods:
- Population-based study utilizing data from 6502 Korean women aged 19-50.
- Analysis employed logistic regression to assess the link between menstrual irregularity and DED.
- Adjustments were made for demographic factors, lifestyle, and parity.
Main Results:
- Menstrual irregularity was significantly associated with an increased risk of DED (OR, 1.49).
- Irregular menstruation also correlated with a higher likelihood of experiencing DED symptoms (OR, 1.43).
- These associations remained significant after controlling for multiple confounding variables.
Conclusions:
- A significant association exists between dry eye disease and menstrual irregularity in Korean women.
- This finding suggests a potential link between systemic health, reproductive function, and ocular health.
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