Ocular Surface in Bangle Makers of Firozabad

Abstract

Purpose: The bangle-making industry in Firozabad, India, is a significant source of employment for thousands of workers. However, the occupational hazards associated with this industry, particularly the exposure to glass dust and chemical fumes, calcide powder, etc. have raised concerns regarding the ocular health of bangle makers. This study is aimed to evaluate and describe the status of ocular surface among the bangle makers in Firozabad. Method: This was an OSDI questionnaire based cross sectional descriptive study, consisting a series of 12 questions about symptoms as itching, redness, blurred vision, grittiness, watering etc. Torch light examination of each subject was performed to look for any ocular abnormalities. An unstructured survey regarding the work hours in the factory, working experience in the bangle making industry, ocular complaints, history of hospital visits and prior eye-check-ups was also done. The responses were represented with the help of tables and chart. Results: 74 participants were enrolled in this study, OSDI score ranging from 23-33 that comes in moderate value. Maximum workers reported with normal eye health but there were ocular morbidities and surface abnormalities prevailing in this population, i.e. pterygium (8%), cataract (5.3%), pinguecula (2.7%), itching (6.7%), redness (4%). Conclusion: There is a need to improve occupational safety measures amongst the industry workers, including the provision of proper eye protection and mandatory eye check-ups to minimize the adverse effects on the ocular health of bangle makers, also need to increase awareness to motivate the workers for regular eye check-ups. Keywords: Ocular Surface, Infrared radiation, Occupational hazards, Ocular morbidities, Bangle makers.