Ocular Injury in Korea: Epidemiological Analysis and Risk Assessment Based on Nationwide Emergency Department Data (2016–2022)

BACKGROUND: Ocular injury is a significant public health concern, which may threaten vision and impose a heavy burden on healthcare systems. In South Korea, understanding the epidemiology of ocular injury is critical for developing effective prevention strategies. METHODS: This study utilized data from the National Emergency Department Information System from 2016 to 2022. Patients presenting with ocular injury to emergency departments (EDs) nationwide were analyzed. We categorized ED visits based on the types of injury and the risk of vision loss by a modified Delphi process. Multivariate logistic regression was performed to identify factors associated with a high risk of vision loss. RESULTS: A total of 581,264 cases of ocular injury were analyzed. Majority of cases occurred in males (72.3%) and individuals aged 40-64 years (37.02%). The elderly (≥ 65 years) exhibited an increasing trend in ocular injury, rising from 9.41% in 2016 to 17.82% in 2022. Individuals covered by industrial accident compensation insurance showed a significantly higher risk of vision loss, particularly among males aged 20-39 years (adjusted odds ratio [aOR], 5.55; 95% confidence interval [CI], 4.25-7.26) and 40-64 years (aOR, 2.94; 95% CI, 2.41-3.59). Machinery-related injuries were also identified as a major risk factor for severe vision loss, with an aOR of 4.83 (95% CI, 3.27-7.14) in males aged 40-64 years. Residents in low-populated areas showed significantly greater risks of severe vision loss compared to those in high-populated areas. CONCLUSION: This study provides a comprehensive epidemiological overview of ocular injury in South Korea, suggesting the need for a more detailed understanding of the mechanisms underlying these injuries, promoting the use of appropriate eye protective gear, and improving access to emergency care in low population density areas.