AIM:To analyze epidemiological characteristics of dry eye and the difference of prevalence in groups with different profession and ages to investigate the relevant risk factors so as to lay a scientific foundation for the diagnostics and treatment of dry eye.

METHODS:Dry eye questionnaire and ocular examination were conducted to 8 145 common persons participating in social physical examinations in Dezhou Center for Disease Control and Prevention from February 2011 to November 2014.

RESULTS:In the target population, 1 803 persons were suffering dry eye, accounting for 22.14%,the prevalence in female was higher than that in male,there was significant difference between genders(χ²=45.12,P<0.01). The prevalence was on the rise along with the age, specifically in 5-20, 21-40, 41-60 and 61-72 years old groups,it was 9.61%(109/1 134), 22.84%(789/3 455), 23.06%(433/1 878)and 28.13%(472/1 678)respectively(χ²=95.76,P<0.01). The prevalence in female was significantly higher than that in male in the 5-20, 41-60 and 61-72 years old groups. The prevalence varied significantly in different occupational populations,and the retiree accouted for the largest proportion(27.48%)(χ²=59.80,P<0.01); the top 3 main complaints were eye dryness(30.40%), blurred vision or vision fluctuation(24.73%)and photophobia(14.53%)in sequence; in addition, the multivariable Logistic regression analysis showed that visual display terminal syndrome, wearing corneal contact lens, the abuse of eye drops and air pollution were the main risk factors for the dry eye symptoms.

CONCLUSION:Dry eye prevention and treatment are badly in need in Dezhou city; and the major clinical characteristics of the disease should be grasped to make a timely and accurate diagnosis and to conduct specific health education and behavior interventional measures to people with different occupations.