On the occasion of the second edition of the National Campaign for Prevention and Diagnosis of Dry Eye Syndrome, promoted by the Centro Italiano Occhio Secco di Milano (CIOS - www.centroitalianoocchiosecco.it) throughout the month of May, the editorial staff of theItalian Ophthalmologist (OI) decided to contribute to the process of promoting and raising awareness of this eye disease by offering several articles on the subject on the OI platform.
Dry eye syndrome, as emphasised by the World Health Organisation, remains "among the most ignored and underestimated disorders in societyà modern"despite the fact that it affects approximately 25% of the male population over 50 and 90% of menopausal women.
Burning, itching, eye redness and impaired lachrymation are just some of the main symptoms of dry eye syndrome that, if neglected, can result in a reduced quality of life for the affected person.
This is why no fewer than 11 screening centres, distributed throughout the country, have joined the prevention campaign by offering free specialist examinations for women, preferably menopausal or pregnant women.
Awareness, early diagnosis and appropriate therapy are, therefore, essential tools for promoting eye health.
Dr. Carmelo Chines
Direttore responsabile