# Comparative Effectiveness Research & Cochrane Eyes and Vision (CEV)

> **NIH NIH UG1** · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · 2021 · $249,361

## Abstract

PROJECT SUMMARY/ABSTRACT
As
in
related
eyes
throughout
problem
disproportionally
 society adapts to the constantly evolving COVID-19 pandemic, the evidence supporting face mask wearing
public and in healthcare settings is strong. Yet, regular and prolonged mask use may increase dry eye-
symptoms, even in individuals without a history of dry eye. The upward air flow from the mask into the
likely accelerates the evaporation of the tear film, which, when masks are worn continuously for hours
the work week, may result in ocular surface irritation and/or inflammation. Dry eye is global health
associated with multiple underlying diagnoses that has a considerable impact on quality of life,
affects the elderly and women, and is expensive to treat.
a
This
symptoms
mask
understand
prevalence
eye-related
administrative supplement will measure the ocular surface, cular environment, and dry eye-related
 mong a sample of healthcare workers across the job spectrum exposed to regular and prolonged
use ( Aim 1 ); elucidate the potential role of masks in exacerbating dry eye-related symptoms and
coping behaviors among hospital workers who participated in Aim 1 ( Aim 2 ); and assess the
of barriers and facilitators of the use of environmental and behavioral modifications to reduce dry
symptoms ( Aim 3 ).
o
a
To achieve these aims, we will utilize innovative technology to measure relative humidity in front of the eyes.
We will integrate qualitative and quantitative approaches and data. We will focus on underserved population
and those of lower socioeconomic positions, and purposely sample from these groups. Findings from the
proposed study will drive innovative and affordable healthcare solutions, promoting self-management of dry
eye. The
collaborations
(Grant
proposed work will leverage key research findings, the theoretica l basis, resources, expertise, and
supported by grant Comparative Effectiveness Research & Cochrane Eyes and Vision
#: UG1 EY020522).

## Key facts

- **NIH application ID:** 10318755
- **Project number:** 3UG1EY020522-13S1
- **Recipient organization:** UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER
- **Principal Investigator:** Tianjing Li
- **Activity code:** UG1 (R01, R21, SBIR, etc.)
- **Funding institute:** NIH
- **Fiscal year:** 2021
- **Award amount:** $249,361
- **Award type:** 3
- **Project period:** 2010-05-01 → 2022-08-31

## Primary source

NIH RePORTER: https://reporter.nih.gov/project-details/10318755

## Citation

> US National Institutes of Health, RePORTER application 10318755, Comparative Effectiveness Research & Cochrane Eyes and Vision (CEV) (3UG1EY020522-13S1). Retrieved via AI Analytics 2026-05-24 from https://api.ai-analytics.org/grant/nih/10318755. Licensed CC0.

---

*[NIH grants dataset](/datasets/nih-grants) · CC0 1.0*