Prevalence and Determinants of Pterygium in Indian Scenario: A Review

Abstract

The pterygium is very common condition, among the Indian people which usually follow a normal course, with slight variations in the appearance having almost nil effect on the visual acuity or on the eye as a whole. This review was envisaged with an aim to measure the pterygium's prevalence and its prime determinants in Indian scenario. A narrative review was done by searching (on PubMed and Google scholar search engine). The importance of factors like geographical region, environment, etc. in various age groups having pterygium was also observed and reviewed. The available data about the prevalence and associated risk factors of pterygium were studied based on wide population cross-sectional survey-based studies. A strong association amongst various risk factors and pterygium was observed which implies a multi-factorial nature of this disease. The prevalence of pterygium is in direct relation with the older aged people, outdoor working professionals and prominent in males.