Research Summary

High Prevalence of Dry Eye Symptoms Among Midlife Women Linked to Computer-Based Work and Reduced Quality of Life

Kate Young

Key Highlights

  • Dry eye symptoms affected 64.9% of Thai women aged 41 to 60 years, with similar rates in peri- and postmenopausal groups.
  • Computer-based work was independently associated with moderate-to-severe symptoms (adjusted OR = 1.81, 95% CI 1.10–2.99).
  • Women with more severe symptoms had poorer physical, psychological, and vasomotor quality-of-life scores.

In a study conducted by researchers at Ramathibodi Hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, dry eye symptoms were prevalent in nearly two-thirds of midlife women, with comparable rates between perimenopausal (61.7%) and postmenopausal (68.2%) groups. The study found that occupational factors, particularly computer-based work, were significantly associated with moderate-to-severe symptoms. Symptom severity correlated with worse scores across several domains of the Menopause-Specific Quality of Life (MENQOL) questionnaire, indicating a broad impact on wellbeing.

Dry eye disease is a frequent but underrecognized condition that impairs daily functioning and quality of life. In Thailand, the prevalence is notably higher than in Western populations, with women over 50 years experiencing nearly double the rate observed in men. Hormonal changes during menopause can destabilize tear film and exacerbate ocular surface symptoms. However, local data among Asian women—especially regarding the menopausal transition—remain limited, prompting the need for this focused study.

Researchers conducted a cross-sectional survey from September to December 2024 at Ramathibodi Hospital’s menopause clinic. A total of 262 women aged 41 to 60 years were recruited and classified by Stages of Reproductive Aging Workshop (STRAW) criteria as perimenopausal or postmenopausal. Participants completed the Thai versions of the Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) and MENQOL questionnaires, both validated instruments. Multivariate logistic regression was used to identify factors independently associated with moderate-to-severe symptoms, and analyses adhered to STROBE guidelines.

Among participants, 64.9% reported dry eye symptoms. There were no statistically significant differences in overall OSDI or subscale scores between menopausal stages. The most common symptoms included light sensitivity, gritty sensation, and blurred vision. While demographic and clinical characteristics showed little variation, computer-based work increased the likelihood of moderate-to-severe symptoms (adjusted OR 1.81; 95% CI 1.10–2.99; P = .019), whereas outdoor work was associated with lower odds. Women with moderate-to-severe symptoms had significantly higher MENQOL scores across physical, psychological, and vasomotor domains, suggesting a substantial quality-of-life burden related to ocular discomfort.

The cross-sectional design limits causal inference, and reliance on self-reported questionnaires may introduce recall bias. The absence of objective ocular testing (e.g., Schirmer’s, TBUT, osmolarity) restricts diagnostic precision, while the single-center setting may reduce generalizability. Additionally, screen exposure was measured dichotomously (>2 h/day), which may underestimate dose-response relationships.

“These findings highlight the importance of early screening and targeted interventions to support midlife women at risk of developing dry eye symptoms,” the researchers concluded.

Reference:
Vallibhakara SA, Chattrakulchai K, Vallibhakara O, Anantaburana M, Nijvipakul S. Dry eye symptoms in midlife women: A cross-sectional analysis of prevalence, risk factors, and quality-of-life outcomes. Maturitas. 2025;201:108694. doi:10.1016/j.maturitas.2025.108694