Abstract: Aaaand another plug for... Are we in an echo chamber or something?

Do I seem kind of tough on these guys? Sorry. I just wish somebody would redirect a little of that effort to persuading insurance companies to fund the things that help the severe dry eye patients. I know people who are literally taking out second mortgages to fund their dry eye treatments. If we could just get things like moisture goggles and moisture chambers reimbursed that would be progress, anyway.

Prevalence, burden, and pharmacoeconomics of dry eye disease.
Pflugfelder SC.
Am J Manag Care. 2008 Apr;14(3 Suppl):S102-6.

Data from a large US managed care database suggest that the prevalence of clinically diagnosed dry eye disease (DED) is 0.4% to 0.5% overall, and is highest among women and the elderly. The burden of DED to the patient can be substantial, impacting visual function, daily activities, social and physical functioning, workplace productivity, and quality of life (QOL). Preliminary analysis suggests that DED also has a considerable economic impact in terms of both direct and indirect costs. A number of therapies have been shown to improve DED signs and symptoms, but few clinical trials have addressed QOL and economic issues. Limited data suggest that topical cyclosporine has the potential to reduce physician visits and use of other medications, including artificial tears; however, further research is needed to clarify its impact on both the direct and indirect costs of DED.