The following announcement was issued by the National Women's Health Resource Center:

Do You Live in a Dry Eye Hot Spot?

Dry eye affects over 20 million Americans, yet it is often under-recognized and under-diagnosed. To raise awareness about the condition during Dry Eye Awareness Month in July, the National Women's Health Resource Center (NWHRC) has released a list of America's 100 DRY EYE HOT SPOTS -- those cities with environmental conditions most likely to aggravate dry eye. The rankings are part of a NWHRC educational initiative, sponsored by Allergan, Inc.

Dry eye symptoms include dryness, foreign body sensation, itching and irritation, and those suffering from dry eye may have trouble with reading , driving at night and using a computer. It can be a progressive disease, and if left untreated, chronic dry eye can lead to more serious problems.

Certain medical factors also can aggravate dry eye, including hormonal changes due to aging and menopause, thyroid problems, vitamin deficiencies, rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, lupus, Sjögren's syndrome and rosacea. In about half of all rosacea sufferers, the eyes are also affected, a condition known as ocular rosacea. Common symptoms of ocular rosacea include a watery or bloodshot appearance, dryness and irritation.

To find out if you live in a DRY EYE HOT SPOT, visit HealthyWomen.org. The site features a Dry Eye Quiz that people can take to their doctor to help determine whether they have chronic dry eye. Visitors to the Web site also will find information on dry eye symptoms, causes, diagnosis, long-term effects and treatment options.