Visual Assessment of the Rickshaw Pullers in Dhaka City

Author(s): Golam Faruk Hossain, Showkat Kabir, Jahida Zabbar, Mohammad Mazaharul Islam, Sheheli Jesmin.

Background: Rickshaw pullers in Dhaka City work long hours in harsh conditions, affecting their eyesight and overall health, which may impair job performance and quality of life. Aim: The study aimed to assess the present visual status of the rickshaw pullers in Dhaka city which assists the eye specialist and policy makers to take necessary steps to overcome the visual impairment of the rickshaw pullers. Result: Among 219 rickshaw pullers, 38.8% were aged 31-40 years, 89.5% lacked formal education, and 95.4% had over five years of experience. While 74.9% could read without difficulty, 21.5% struggled with the standard eye chart, and only 6.4% were diagnosed with eye problems. Most, 51% had good vision, though 7% reported poor vision. Diabetes and hypertension affected 3.2% each, while 64.4% worked over 9 hours daily. Significant associations were found between age and refractive status (p=0.011) and workload and income (p=0.006). Methods: This cross-sectional study, conducted over three months (August to October 2024) among 219 rickshaw pullers in Dhaka City, selected via purposive sampling. Male rickshaw pullers aged 18 years or above with at least one year of experience were included, while those with severe visual impairments or disabilities were excluded. Data were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire and visual assessments with a Snellen chart, Ishihara plates, and reading tests. Statistical analysis was conducted using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26, employing descriptive and inferential methods, with significance set at p<0.05. Ethical approval was obtained, and participants provided informed consent, ensuring confidentiality and data integrity. Conclusion: The study reveals significant visual health issues among rickshaw pullers in Dhaka City, highlighting the need for eye care interventions and regular screenings to improve their vision and quality of life, ensuring better occupational performance and well-being.