FREQUENCY OF ANTERIOR SEGMENT DISEASES ASSOCIATED WITH ENVIRONMENTAL FACTORS IN AGE GROUP 12 TO 60 YEARS IN LRBT QUETTA

Abstract

Background: Anterior segment diseases of the eye are highly prevalent and often influenced by environmental factors such as dust, UV radiation, and occupational exposure. These conditions can significantly impair vision and quality of life if left unrecognized or untreated. Despite their burden, the environmental associations of these diseases remain underexplored, particularly in underserved regions. This study was conducted to determine the frequency of anterior segment disorders and their relationship with environmental exposures among patients presenting to a tertiary eye care facility.

Objective: To determine the frequency of anterior segment diseases and evaluate their association with environmental risk factors in patients attending LRBT Hospital Quetta.

Methods: A descriptive cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted at LRBT Hospital Quetta between 10 August and 10 September 2024. A total of 211 participants were selected through non-probability purposive sampling. Inclusion criteria involved patients aged 12 years and older who consented to participate. Data were collected using a structured close-ended questionnaire and clinical eye examination. Environmental exposure variables included sunlight, dust, and occupational setting. Data were analyzed using SPSS version 25 for descriptive statistics.

Results: Among the 211 participants, 156 (74%) were male and 55 (26%) were female, with a mean age of 33.64 years. The most frequently diagnosed anterior segment disease was conjunctivitis, affecting 70 individuals (33.2%), followed by cataract in 41 (19.5%), and both VKC and pterygium in 40 patients each (19%). Notably, 195 participants (92.42%) reported no use of eye protection, while 116 (54.9%) had daily dust exposure exceeding six hours. A majority of cases were linked to outdoor work environments.

Conclusion: Conjunctivitis emerged as the most common anterior segment disease. The findings underscore a strong association between environmental exposures and disease occurrence, highlighting the urgent need for preventive public health interventions.