Conjunctival impression cytology in chronic cement exposure: A comparative study

Context: The Bagalkot region of Karnataka in specific is known for its hot and dry climate and also the presence of cement factory. Very few studies have been conducted in this region, and there is a need for this study to know the ocular symptoms and conjunctival cell changes among the population residing in the vicinity of Bagalkot cement factory. Settings and Design: This is a comparative cross-sectional study between70 participants residing within 2 km radius (Group 1) and 70 participants residing outside 2 km radius (Group 2) of Bagalkot cement factory. Patients were evaluated for ocular discomfort using OSDI questionnaire and tear film changes using Schirmer's-1 test and sample was collected for conjunctival impression cytology. Results: As this study was age and gender matched, the age distribution and gender distribution among two groups were same. Schirmer's-1 test values were significantly low (<10 mm) in group 1 subjects (71.4%) than in group 2 subjects (32.9%) (P = <0.001). Majority of group 1 subjects were graded 2 and 3 in Nelson's grading for conjunctival impression cytology (55.8%), but this was 22.9% in group 2 (P < 0.001). OSDI score showed that 57.2% of group 1 had moderate-to-severe dry eye and this was 12.9% in group 2 (P < 0.001). Gender, occupation, location of stay and duration of stay showed significant association with Schirmer's test, OSDI score and Nelson's grading (P < 0.05). Conclusions: Cement dust poses high risk to eye health. More plans should be carried out to reduce dust exposure in the high-risk areas of the factory.