While 77% of Australians have experienced dry eye symptoms,1 many do not have a clear understanding of the signs, symptoms or causes, according to a new consumer study conducted by Alcon.
The study suggested that despite the prevalence of dry eye discomfort, only 11% of people would see an optometrist and 3% would speak to a pharmacist for advice in response to their eyes bothering them.2
The research, which has been released in conjunction with the launch of Systane Complete Preservative-Free Lubricant Eye Drops, revealed the top symptoms for eye-discomfort include ‘tired’ (62%), ‘blurry’ (39%), and ‘dry’ (35%).
Lifestyle factors are contributing to eye-discomfort with long screen exposure – 61% of responders reported experiencing dry eye symptoms with long term computer usage. A third (34%) experience dry eye when using their mobile and cell phones. In a typical day, nearly one third (32%) of Australians stare at a screen for more than seven hours. Screen time use is even higher for Australians between the ages of 18-34 as they spend a mean of eight hours a day.1
The saying, ‘the eyes are our window to the world’, is not lost on Australians with nearly nine in 10 (89%) suffering from dry eye symptoms. One in five (21%) aren’t seeking help to resolve their condition. Indeed, when their eyes are bothering them, they put it down to tiredness (59%) or screentime (47%). Only 25% of Australians put their eye-discomfort down to dry eye, further evidence of a need for better education when it comes to knowing where to turn for dry eye relief and treating eye-discomforts.
“Dry eye is a clear issue for Australians given the demands we put on our eyes, but there are a range of solutions available, like Systane Complete Preservative-Free Lubricant Eye Drops,” says Rich Oliver, Country Franchise Head, Vision Care, Alcon Australia and New Zealand.
He said the ongoing relationship between pharmacist and optometrist is key to helping Australians manage their eye health.
“There is still a lot of education and awareness driving needed to help find Australians relief, but with this study, we are aiming to raise awareness of the symptoms and causes of dry eye to help Australians feel more confident when speaking with their physician,” said Mr Oliver.
About Systane® COMPLETE PRESERVATIVE-FREE Lubricant Eye Drops
About Systane® COMPLETE PRESERVATIVE-FREE Lubricant Eye DropsWith Systane® COMPLETE PRESERVATIVE-FREE Lubricant Eye Drops, people can find the suitable relief they need to help them stay focused. Developed by the global leader in eye care, Alcon, the unique formula of Systane® COMPLETE PRESERVATIVE-FREE Lubricant Eye Drops replenishes the eyes’ lipid layer and delivers all-in-one relief that lasts for up to 8 hours.3
Systane® COMPLETE PRESERVATIVE-FREE Lubricant Eye Drops are now available in most major pharmacies, optical stores and online retailers. Learn more about Dry Eye and Systane® products via https://systane.myalcon.com/au/about-dry-eye/.
References
1. Optometry Australia, 2020 Vision Index Report
2. Data referenced here has been commissioned by PureProfile on behalf of Alcon; Base: Total (n=1000).
3. Silverstein S, YeuE, Tauber J, et al. Symptom Relief Following a Single Dose of Propylene Glycol-Hydroxypropyl Guar Nanoemulsionin Patients with Dry Eye Disease: A Phase IV, MulticenterTrial. Clin Ophthalmol. 2020;14:3167-3177.
