Prevalence and Classification of Dry Eye Disease (DED) in Cataract Camp Patients

Abstract

Aim: To determine the prevalence, severity, and classification of Dry Eye Disease (DED) among patients attending cataract screening camps and to highlight the importance of routine ocular surface evaluation before cataract surgery. Methods: This cross-sectional study included 170 patients aged above 35 years who were diagnosed with cataract during community-based screening camps and referred for further evaluation. All participants underwent comprehensive preoperative assessment, including subjective evaluation using the Ocular Surface Disease Index  questionnaire (OSDI-12) and objective tests such as Tear Film Break-Up Time (TBUT), Schirmer’s Test I and II, and ocular surface staining. Dry Eye Disease was classified based on severity using combined symptom and clinical test findings. Statistical analysis was performed to assess the association between dry eye parameters and disease severity.  Results: The mean age of participants was 61.45 ± 9.68 years, with 51.2% males and 48.8% females. The overall prevalence of Dry Eye Disease among cataract camp patients was 72.4% (123/170). Moderate-to-severe DED was most common: 12.4% mild, 24.1% moderate, 29.4% severe, and 6.5% very severe cases. Severe DED was the most frequent category (p < 0.001). The mean OSDI score was 47.51 ± 15.59, indicating high symptom burden, and showed significant association with disease severity (p < 0.001). Both TBUT and Schirmer’s test values demonstrated statistically significant correlation with increasing DED severity (p ≤ 0.001), indicating worsening tear film instability and reduced tear secretion with disease progression.

Conclusion: Dry Eye Disease is highly prevalent among cataract camp patients, with the majority presenting moderate-to-severe disease. Both subjective and objective assessments showed strong correlation with severity. Routine preoperative dry eye screening in cataract outreach programs is essential to improve surgical planning, optimize visual outcomes, and enhance patient satisfaction