Alterations in the ocular surface and tear film in active smokers and non-smokers

Abstract

Cigarette consumption is a risk factor for cardiovascular, pulmonary, skin and mucous diseases. <em><strong>Objective:</strong></em> To evaluate the quality and quantity alterations of the tear film and ocular surface in active smokers and non-smokers. Materials and <em><strong>Methods:</strong></em> Observational-transversal study. Thirty smoking individuals and 30 non-smokers between the ages of 18 and 40 were included. A background survey was applied, and those who met the inclusion criteria signed the informed consent, and they were submitted to BUT, Schirmer with anesthesia, fluorescein staining and impression cytology. The Mann-Whitney, Chi-squared and prevalence ratio (PR) tests were performed. <em><strong>Results:</strong></em> A statistically significant decrease in the quality of the tear film (p = 0.000) and significant increase in squamous metaplasia (p = 0.001) was found in the smokers’ group compared to the group of non-smokers. The prevalence of alterations in the tear film was 76.7 % in smokers (Quantity: 20 % and quality: 76.7 %). 60 % showed a change in the ocular surface (cornea: 10 % and squamous metaplasia: 56.7 %). A PR of 1.5 (95 % CI 0.94-2.0) was established between the habit of smoking and BUT, and a PR = 2.3 (95% CI 1.8-2.9) between the habit of smoking and degree of conjunctival squamous metaplasia. Conclusions: Cigarette consumption was associated with a decrease in the quality of the tear film and the increased conjunctival squamous metaplasia.