No abstract

Background: During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic, the utilization of face masks was made mandatory as a protective tool. However, prolonged use of face masks increases the risk of dry eye, which affects people's visual-based activities. The Al-Baha area is a high-altitude area located in the west of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in the Hejaz region. As a result, residents of this region are more likely to suffer from dry eyes because of the extreme environmental conditions. Subsequently, the aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of mask-associated dry eye (MADE) and its associated risk factors among the general population of the Al-Baha area, Saudi Arabia.

Introduction: The research is directed to assess the knowledge and perception of the Al-Baha population regarding eye health and its common disorders and risk factors such as high altitude, contact lenses, pregnancy, drugs and ultraviolet. Methods: Cross-sectional study was implemented in the highaltitude region of Al-Baha. The data collection of the present research was based on the Google Survey forms for gathering the responses. The predesigned survey questionnaire (Google form) was shared with the general population. For data analysis, the data were transformed into codes and with the help of software named SPSS, the data were analyzed. It was assured that the data was valid and reliable with the help of the reliability and validity test (a Cronbach = 0.949 and Validity = 0.974). Results: The results showed that the awareness level of the participants about the contact lens and UV rays was relatively higher, as 64.2% of participants were aware of the contact lens as a risk factor. However, the awareness regarding altitude and pregnancy is low, which accounted 19.9 % and 10% of the total respondents. Conclusion: The participants show different levels of knowledge regarding eye health concerning the effect of contact lenses and UV and high altitude and pregnancy.