Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a common eye disease that occurs when the meibomian glands in the eyelids do not function properly. The meibomian glands are sebaceous glands located in the upper and lower eyelids that secrete an oily substance called meibum. Meibum forms the outer layer of the tear film and helps prevent evaporation of tears.
When the meibomian glands are obstructed or inflamed and unable to properly secrete meibum, the quality and stability of the tear film is disrupted, causing dry eye symptoms. MGD is one of the leading causes of evaporative dry eye disease in the United States. However, it often goes undiagnosed due to a lack of awareness.
Symptoms of U.S. Meibomian Gland Dysfunction
Some common symptoms of MGD include eye dryness, itching, burning, soreness, scaling, redness, discharge from the eyelids, blurry vision during reading or computer use, and sensitivity to light. The symptoms can fluctuate throughout the day and may worsen at the end of the day. Contact lens wearers are also prone to developing MGD, which can interfere with comfortable lens wear.
In severe cases, plugging of many meibomian gland orifices and loss of glandular tissue may occur, leading to thickening and shortening of the outer edges of the eyelids called lid margin changes. These structural changes can impair proper drainage and secretion of meibum.
Prevalence of MGD in the U.S.
According to various epidemiological studies, U.S. Meibomian Gland Dysfunction is an extremely common disorder in the United States, affecting approximately 20-30% of the adult population. The prevalence increases with age, and over 50% of people between ages 60-80 have signs of MGD.
Women are also more likely to be affected than men, with studies showing nearly two-thirds of women seeking treatment for dry eye actually have MGD. The high prevalence of MGD in the U.S. can be attributed to aging population, widespread digital device usage, environmental factors, and lifestyle habits that place added stress on the meibomian glands.
Causes and Risk Factors
Some of the major causes and risk factors for developing MGD include:
- Aging: Declining function of the meibomian glands is natural with aging.
- Genetics: Certain genetic factors have been linked to increased risk of MGD.
- Medications: Many prescription and over-the-counter medications like antihistamines, antidepressants, isotretinoin can cause dry eye and MGD.
- Digital device use: Frequent use of computers, phones, tablets impacts blink rate and exposes eyes to dry indoor air which stresses meibomian glands.
- Environmental factors: Air conditioning, heating systems lower humidity levels, increasing tear film evaporation.
- Systemic diseases: Rosacea, thyroid disorders, vitamin A deficiency are associated with MGD.
- Lifestyle: Smoking, poor diet, lack of omega-3 fatty acids, infrequent blinking while reading or using devices.
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