Prevalence of Mask-Associated Dry Eye (Made) Among the General Population of Al-Baha Area, Saudi Arabia

Background: During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the utilization of face masks was made mandatory as a protective tool. However, prolonged use of face masks increases the risk of dry eye, which affects people's visual-based activities. The Al-Baha area is a high-altitude area located in the west of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Hejaz region. As a result, residents of this region are more likely to suffer from dry eyes because of the extreme environmental conditions. Subsequently, the aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of mask-associated dry eye (MADE) and its associated risk factors among the general population of the Al-Baha area, Saudi Arabia.

Materials and Methods: This is a cross-sectional study conducted using an anonymous online questionnaire composed of 56 questions. Data were collected from 480 participants in the Al-Baha area.

Results: The prevalence of MADE among the general population of Al-Baha, Saudi Arabia, was 39.2%, which is higher than the global prevalence. The risk factors for MADE include exposure to dry weather, wind, blepharitis, and ectropion. Moreover, it was determined that females were more likely to develop MADE than males; likewise, people in the age group of 16 to 25 were more likely to have MADE.

Conclusion: The study shows that the prevalence of MADE in Al-Baha is comparatively higher than the worldwide prevalence, which is best explained by this area being at a high altitude. Based on the study's findings, some recommendations to guard against MADE are made to patients, the general public, and ophthalmologists.