Mask Associated Dry Eye (Made) in University of Mostar Students

Abstract

Background: The aim of this study was to examine frequency of mask associated dry eye in students of University of Mostar and to compare incidence among students of different study programs.

Methods: The study included 56 participants, the first group was comprised of 31 biomedical students, and the second group was comprised of 25 students from other studies.  The participants were given a modified Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, and were subjected to Schirmer and tear break up time (TBUT) tests for objective assessment of dry eye.

Main findings: Participants who wore facemask 3-6 h a day had a significantly lower TBUT-test results (Z = -2,172, p = 0,030), lower Schirmer test values (Z = -1,962, p = 0,050) and higher OSDI scores (Z = 2,095, p = 0,036), compared to participants who wore it less than 3 hours a day. Moreover, women had a statistically higher OSDI score compared with men (Z = 2,052, p = 0,040).

Principal conclusion: Participants who wore masks for longer hours had more objectively defined dry eye demonstrated by Schirmer and TBUT test. The study had shown that biomedical students didn't wear face masks longer than average, or at least not long enough for significant difference.