Dry eye: prevalence, utilization, and economic implications.

Dry eye syndrome is far more prevalent than previously considered. There are significant comorbidities, associated diseases, and behavioral and environmental factors that may contribute to the severity of dry eye. Dry eye syndrome has significant economic implications, including costs associated with increased health care utilization, missed school and work, and leisure and quality-of-life issues. Dry eye presents important economic challenges to patients, physicians, and health care delivery organizations.