BENGALURU: Dry Eye Disease (DED) is becoming a major health issue, affecting more people than ever. Experts at the 3rd Dry Eye and Ocular Surface Society Congress shed light on this growing concern, noting that its reach spans all age groups.
Dr. Rohit Shetty, from Narayana Nethralaya, stated that dry eye patients now make up nearly 30% of his practice. “What used to be an adult-only problem is now common among younger people due to lifestyle changes—think screen time, pollution, and even health issues,” he said.
Personalized treatment is becoming essential. Doctors are now using tear biomarkers to understand inflammation and systemic health, tailoring remedies for each patient. AI tools are also on the horizon, helping to identify which treatments work best for individuals.
Dr. Ananth Bhandary, President-Elect of the Karnataka Ophthalmic Society, expressed concern that basic wipes won’t cut it. He advocates for medicated wipes with ingredients like castor oil and tea tree oil, which can help reduce inflammation and infection.
Pollution, air conditioning, and excessive screen use are major contributors to DED. While drops may provide quick relief, the experts argue for targeted therapies that tackle the root causes. Misuse of treatments, especially antibiotics, can lead to resistance and make things worse.
Statistics show that 6.8 million people in India likely suffer from DED, with a significant rise observed over the past decade. This surge highlights the need for awareness and early intervention to avoid serious complications like keratoconus and impaired surgical outcomes.
Addressing DED requires a comprehensive approach—understanding the lifestyle factors at play and providing effective, science-backed treatments. This conversation is vital as we navigate the challenges posed by our modern environment.
For more on this topic, you can check out the reports from the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
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