Advisory Committee Chair
Kelly Nichols
Advisory Committee Members
Adam Gordon
Jillian Ziemanski
Document Type
Thesis
Date of Award
1-1-2025
Degree Name by School
Master of Science (MS) School of Optometry
Abstract
Background Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) varies in prevalence depending on the demographic and can significantly impact quality of life. There is a lack of research on MGD in young adult, professional student populations. Professional students often experience high levels of stress, reduced sleep, and increased electronic device use, which may elevate their risk for developing MGD. Specific Aims This cross-sectional clinical analysis has two specific aims: (1) to determine the prevalence of MGD in a young adult, professional student population, and (2) to identify potential risk factors and clinical assessments correlated with MGD. Methods A total of 147 professional students in a Doctor of Optometry (OD) degree program were assessed at a baseline visit. Computer use and computer discomfort were queried, and symptom assessment was obtained through two questionnaires. Clinical assessments included LLT, TBUT, meibomian gland expression, and meibography. Participants were classified as MGD or non-MGD based on functional and structural definitions. Results The study group consisted predominantly of white, non-Hispanic females with an average age of 24 ± 2.37 years. The prevalence of MGD was found to be 73.5%. Both the MGD and non-MGD groups reported significant electronic device use, averaging 7.74 ± 2.77 and 7.85 ± 3.11 hours, respectively. Nearly half of the participants in both groups experienced discomfort while using electronic devices. The average SPEED score for both groups was 6, exceeding the generally accepted cutoff for being symptomatic for DED. There was a statistically significant difference in the percentage of meibomian gland dropout between the MGD group (36 ± 35) and the non-MGD group (4 ± 6). Other clinical assessments did not show statistically significant differences. Conclusion MGD is highly prevalent in this population. Further studies are needed to assess the prevalence, potential risk factors, and clinical assessment correlations in this demographic. Insights from this analysis can guide future research and improve clinical practices to enhance ocular health and overall well-being in this population.
Recommended Citation
Thomas, Tyler, "Prevalence of Meibomian Gland Dysfunction in a Young Adult Population" (2025). All ETDs from UAB. 6895.
https://digitalcommons.library.uab.edu/etd-collection/6895
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