Prevalence of ocular allergy among adults in Trinidad and Tobago: A cross-sectional study.

BACKGROUND

Ocular allergy (OA) is a significant public health concern, but its prevalence remains underreported due to underdiagnosis. This study aims to determine the prevalence of OA among adults in Trinidad and Tobago.

METHOD: A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted using an online questionnaire to assess OA prevalence. Sociodemographic, environmental, and systemic characteristics of participants were also evaluated. Data was analyzed using SPSS with both descriptive and inferential statistical techniques, including bi-variable and multivariable logistic regression.

RESULTS

A total of 591 participants completed the survey with majority (73.6%) as female and aged 18-24 years (50.1%). The overall prevalence of OA was 41.6% (95% CI, 37.2-45.0), with seasonal OA being the most common (80.1%). OA symptoms were most prevalent in spring (62.1%), with light sensitivity reported by 57.7% of participants. Bi-variable analysis identified asthma, allergic rhinitis, pollen allergy, and exposure to environmental factors such as cigarettes and air conditioning as associated with OA. Multivariable analysis confirmed these associations, with significant p-values for asthma (0.017), allergic rhinitis (0.035), pollen allergy (< 0.001), mite allergy (0.038), cigarettes (0.006), air conditioning (< 0.001), and OA awareness (< 0.001).

CONCLUSION

There is a high prevalence of OA among adults in Trinidad and Tobago, with systemic and environmental allergens playing a significant role. Interventions to reduce exposure to allergens, such as using indoor air filters and managing allergic conditions, could help mitigate OA prevalence. Regular assessment of patients with allergic rhinitis and asthma for OA is recommended.