Survey finds doubling of dry eye disease diagnoses in a year

Research by Théa UK has revealed that the number of people with a diagnosis of dry eye disease has more than doubled in the past year.

The Keep a look out for your eyes survey, of 2000 people in Britain, found that one in three people (34%) have received a diagnosis of dry eye disease, representing a doubling of Théa’s research in 2021.

Théa highlighted that several factors can increase the chances of developing dry eye disease, but found that 43% of people with the condition haven’t changed their lifestyle.

One in five (22%) did not use recommended eye drops following a diagnosis.

The survey found that over a third of British people haven’t had an eye test within the last two years, while one in 10 report having never had one, the company suggested.

One in five people shared that they had cancelled or postponed an eye test in order to save money, as they were not able to afford the cost of new glasses.

Optometrist, Sarah Farrant, challenged the UK public to “keep a look out for your eyes” and to book a sight test.

“Regular eye tests not only determine whether you need glasses or a change in prescription, they can also easily detect conditions such as dry eye disease,” Farrant said.

Farrant offered recommendations for ways the public can look after their eyes, such as reducing screen time, taking a screen break every 20 minutes, wearing sunglasses outside and adopting an appropriate eye care routine.

She also highlighted the importance of preservative-free drops for patients with dry eye disease.

The actress and television personality, Nadia Sawalha, has supported Théa’s eye health message, and has personal experience of dry eye.

Encouraging those who think they might have dry eye disease to seek advice from an optometrist or pharmacist, Sawalha said: “We’ve all been guilty of putting off looking after ourselves at times, however, our eyes are our window to the world and so it is critical that people take some time to look after their eyes.”

Théa’s patient website, Your Eye Health, offers a symptom checker and further information on conditions like dry eye disease.