Evaluating Asthenopia and Binocular Vision Parameters in Diamond Polishing Workers, The Mumbai Eye Disease Study (MEDiS) 3.

Abstract

Purpose: Investigate the prevalence of asthenopia and binocular vision abnormalities (BVA) among diamond polishers in Mumbai, India.

Methods: The data was collected from eye screening in people working in one of the diamond industries in Mumbai, India. This retrospective cross-sectional study included only diamond polishers aged 18-35 with uncorrected 20/20 distance vision and N6 near vision. Others working in the diamond industry were excluded. Comprehensive eye screening included measuring Snellen acuity, refraction, and binocular vision tests. A CISS (Convergence Insufficiency Symptoms Survey) questionnaire was administered to assess binocular vision parameters and asthenopia.

Results: In the screening cohort of 1,093 diamond industry screened workers, 66 people engaged in polishing were included in the study. The prevalence of BVA was 77.3%; stereo acuity abnormalities were the most common (63.6%), followed by accommodative insufficiency (43.9%). No significant association was found between CISS scores with age, work hours, or experience, although 10.6% of participants had CISS scores above 21. Age was significantly correlated with the near point of accommodation (P < 0.001), and older participants (26-35 years) exhibited higher fusional vergence abnormalities though not statistically significant.

Conclusion: The high prevalence of binocular vision abnormalities among diamond polishers underscores the need for targeted interventions to reduce visual fatigue and improve working conditions in this high-demand occupation. Further studies are required to suggest corrective measures to enhance eye health and work productivity.