Prevalence of Mask-Associated Dry Eye (Made) Among the General Population of Al-Baha Area, Saudi Arabia

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.