A comparative assessment of dry eye disease among outdoor street sweepers and indoor office cleaners

Abstract Background Occupational predisposition to dry eye disease is known. Simultaneous exposure multiple factors may pose more risk. Street sweepers are exposed sunlight in addition dust which all to. Tropical climate predisposes significant sunlight. Combined and lead a synergy of factors. This study aims assess the prevalence (DED) amongst Office cleaners Calabar metropolis. Methods A cross-sectional was conducted among street office cleaners. systematic random sampling multi-stage method were used select ( n = 115) (n respectively for study. pretested semi-structured interviewer-administered questionnaire obtain information after respondents had an ophthalmic examination. An assessment DED done with Ocular Surface Disease Index (OSDI) questionnaire, Schirmer’s test, tear break up time (TBUT). OSDI scores 33 above; test readings < 10 mm wetting 5 min TBUT less than 10s either considered as positive disease. Results The majority females 215(93.5%) compared males 15 (6.5%). overall mean age 40.96 ± 9.8 years. average score, well participants 26.4 16.0, 16.44 9.52 mm, 12.38 4.53 s respectively. 35.7% 20% using p 0.352). 32.2% 30.4% test. 0.73) reported 38.3% 0.48) Overall; Schirmers not statistically (> 0.05) Sweepers higher odds developing (OR 2.085; C.I. =1.106–3.929; 0.02). Negative correlation coefficient observed between (r − 0.102; 0.125). significant. Conclusion due risk increased environmental such dust, smoke, effect possibly Studies on dose-response warranted.