Vision Problems, Eye Care History, and Ocular Protection Among Migrant Farmworkers

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Mark R. Schulz, Assistant Professor (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/

Abstract: In this article, the authors describe the self-reported eye conditions, eyecare history, and eye safety practices of migrant farmworkers in eastern North Carolina. The authors administered interviews to 79 farmworkers recruited at migrant clinics. Data collected included eye-related complaints and diagnoses, self-assessed visual acuity, eye symptoms, use of protective gear during work, and attitudes toward eye protection gear. Fair or poor eyesight was reported by 21.3%. Only 4 (5. 1 %) reported wearing glasses or contact lenses. More than 11 % reported difficulty in recognizing a friend across the street, and 19.5% reported difficulty in reading. About 20% reported each of several eye symptoms. Fewer than 1 in 10 wore eye protection at work. Of all, 38% reported never having visited any eyecare professional. Farmworkers have a high level of unmet need for both routine preventive eye care and treatment or correction of vision problems.

Additional Information

Publication
Quandt, S. A., Feldman, S. R. , Vallejos, Q. M. , Schulz, M. R. , Verma, A., Fleischer, A. B., Arcury, T. A., (2008). Vision Problems, Eye Care History, and Ocular Protective Behaviors of Migrant Farmworkers. Archives of Environmental and Occupational Health, 63 (1), 13-16.
Language: English
Date: 2008
Keywords
agricultural workers, Latino, occupational health, underserved

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