DR. NEHA CHAUHAN

DR. (COL) GAURAV KAPOOR

Abstract

Ocular surface is covered with conjunctival mucosa and corneal epithelium which are susceptible to deleterious effects of environmental factors. To keep the above factors at bay it is covered with tear film. Environmental changes are contributed by the prevailing climatic conditions which are largely a function of the altitude. In this hospital based, cross sectional, comparative, observational study the tear film changes were studied in population in hilly terrain (2000- 9000 ft) using questionnaires and clinical assessment and compared with residents of plains over an year. Each environmental group was subcategorized based on occupation. The climatic conditions at hills differ from high altitude and plains. At hills, there is no dust/ pollution as in plains; also, low temperatures, dryness and wind chill factor is much less as compared to high altitude. Study showed higher prevalence of DED in plains and in all occupation sub groups who were from plains, more in outdoor workers.