J Korean Biol Nurs Sci.  2025 Feb;27(1):72-84. 10.7586/jkbns.24.036.

Factors affecting dry eye syndrome and quality of life among college students in Korea: a cross-sectional study

• Cho MK
• Yoon S
• Cho Y
• Jun Y
• Choi J
• Ryu M
• Kim MJ
• Sung GH

• KMID: 2565137
• DOI: http://doi.org/10.7586/jkbns.24.036

Abstract

Purpose
This study aimed to identify the factors affecting dry eye syndrome and quality of life (QoL) among college students. Methods: This cross-sectional study administered a descriptive survey to 184 college students across Korea. Data collection was conducted from August 27 to 28, 2024, using an online survey platform (Google Forms). The self-reported survey comprised the Health-Related Quality of Life Instrument with 8 Items scale, the Dry Eye Questionnaire 5, and the Ocular Surface Disease Index. Data analysis was performed using SPSS version 27.0. Results: The participants had a mean age of 21.37 (standard deviation 1.96) years. Regression analysis identified sleep satisfaction, vision-related functions, and dry eye symptoms as statistically significant predictors of QoL, accounting for 18.4% of the variance (F = 14.71, p < .001). Dry eye symptoms were significantly influenced by the use of artificial tears, vision-related functions, and environmental factors, which accounted for 41.3% of the variance (F = 43.93, p < .001). Additionally, significant determinants of ocular surface disease included the use of vision correction tools, the presence of ophthalmic diseases, sleep satisfaction, and dry eye symptoms. These factors explained 45.7% of the variance, confirming the model's robustness (F = 31.84, p < .001). Conclusion: It is necessary to identify strategies to alleviate dry eye syndrome in college students and develop comprehensive prevention and management programs to improve their QoL.

Keyword

Students; Quality of life; Dry eye syndromes; Ophthalmology