SAS Output

Racial Influences on Dry Eye Disease Burden: A Multivariable Analysis of the DREAM Study

September 24, 2024: 9:00 AM - 9:15 AM

Careers, Training & Education, Brookside A

Authors	Abstract
Mengjie Lu	Purpose/Hypothesis: This study investigates the hypothesis that race and ethnicity significantly impact the burden of dry eye disease (DED) on individuals' daily activities and quality of life. Number of Participants: Data from 535 participants in the DREAM study were analyzed, comprising 12.71% Hispanic or Latino, 11.96% Black or African American, 68.79% White, and 6.54% from other racial backgrounds. Methods/Materials: This study conducted a multivariable analysis using Generalized Linear Models (GLM) to evaluate the impact of race and ethnicity on DED outcomes, adjusting for age, gender, and comorbid conditions. The primary outcomes included mental and physical health summary scores, physical function, and DED symptoms such as tear break-up time (TBUT) and lissamine green staining. Data were collected and analyzed following the Institutional Review Board (IRB) compliance to ensure ethical research practices. Results: The analysis revealed significant racial disparities in DED outcomes. Hispanic or Latino and Black or African American participants reported worse physical function and greater role limitations due to emotional problems compared to White participants. Significant differences were also found in physical discomfort, with White participants experiencing lower levels of discomfort. DED symptom severity, including TBUT and lissamine green staining, varied significantly across racial groups, suggesting that race and ethnicity influence both the clinical presentation and impact of DED. Conclusions: Race and ethnicity are critical factors that influence the burden of DED on quality of life and daily functioning. The disparities observed underscore the need for culturally sensitive treatment approaches. Future research should prioritize inclusive study designs to address these disparities and improve outcomes for all racial and ethnic groups. Clinical or Social Relevance: This study highlights the importance of developing targeted public health interventions and medical strategies to address racial and ethnic disparities in DED, which could enhance the quality of life and daily functioning of affected individuals.

Mengjie Lu

Purpose/Hypothesis: This study investigates the hypothesis that race and ethnicity significantly impact the burden of dry eye disease (DED) on individuals' daily activities and quality of life. Number of Participants: Data from 535 participants in the DREAM study were analyzed, comprising 12.71% Hispanic or Latino, 11.96% Black or African American, 68.79% White, and 6.54% from other racial backgrounds. Methods/Materials: This study conducted a multivariable analysis using Generalized Linear Models (GLM) to evaluate the impact of race and ethnicity on DED outcomes, adjusting for age, gender, and comorbid conditions. The primary outcomes included mental and physical health summary scores, physical function, and DED symptoms such as tear break-up time (TBUT) and lissamine green staining. Data were collected and analyzed following the Institutional Review Board (IRB) compliance to ensure ethical research practices. Results: The analysis revealed significant racial disparities in DED outcomes. Hispanic or Latino and Black or African American participants reported worse physical function and greater role limitations due to emotional problems compared to White participants. Significant differences were also found in physical discomfort, with White participants experiencing lower levels of discomfort. DED symptom severity, including TBUT and lissamine green staining, varied significantly across racial groups, suggesting that race and ethnicity influence both the clinical presentation and impact of DED. Conclusions: Race and ethnicity are critical factors that influence the burden of DED on quality of life and daily functioning. The disparities observed underscore the need for culturally sensitive treatment approaches. Future research should prioritize inclusive study designs to address these disparities and improve outcomes for all racial and ethnic groups. Clinical or Social Relevance: This study highlights the importance of developing targeted public health interventions and medical strategies to address racial and ethnic disparities in DED, which could enhance the quality of life and daily functioning of affected individuals.