VAUGHAN, Ontario—Global eye health leader Bausch + Lomb Corporation (NYSE/TSX: BLCO) has announced findings from a new survey highlighting a significant awareness gap around dry eye and its association with perimenopause and menopause. Specifically, the findings show that 78 percent of women were surprised to learn dry eye is a symptom during these stages of life, and that only 14 percent of perimenopausal, menopausal and post-menopausal women recognize dry eye as a menopause-related symptom, compared to 79 percent who recognize hot flashes.
“Dry eye symptoms can have a meaningful impact on everyday activities and quality of life, yet they are often not associated with perimenopause and menopause,” said Mayssa Attar, PhD, senior vice president, Consumer and Pharmaceutical Research & Development, Bausch + Lomb. “The survey findings highlight an opportunity to increase understanding of how eye health can be affected during these stages of life and encourage women experiencing symptoms to speak with an eyecare professional.”
Hormonal changes that occur during perimenopause and menopause can affect tear production, tear quality and tear evaporation, according to B+L, contributing to dry eye symptoms such as burning, irritation, fluctuating vision and a feeling of discomfort, the announcement stated. Among women who experience dry eye symptoms during perimenopause, menopause or post-menopause, 80 percent said the symptom came as a surprise.
The survey also highlighted the impact that dry eye symptoms can have on everyday life. Among peri-, menopausal and post-menopausal women who experience dry eye:
- 58 percent reported difficulty reading.
- 53 percent reported difficulty using screens.
- 26 percent reported difficulty driving.
- 17 percent reported reduced productivity.
Beyond awareness of dry eye symptoms, many women reported challenges navigating perimenopause and menopause. More than 43 percent said managing their symptoms is overwhelming, while more than 40 percent said they don’t know where to start when it comes to managing their peri- or menopausal symptoms.
“Given how frequently dry eye symptoms are overlooked during perimenopause and menopause, these findings are an important reminder that eye health deserves to be part of the conversation,” said Neda Gioia, OD, CNS, IFMCP, FOWNS, and founder, Integrative Vision, Shrewsbury, N.J. “Recognizing symptoms early can help women seek appropriate care and explore management options that may improve comfort and quality of life.”
The survey was conducted among 402 women aged 30 to more than 80 years who are perimenopausal, menopausal or post-menopausal.
