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Eye Strain Costs Garment Workers Productivity
22 Jun
Summary
- Majority of garment workers aged 40+ experienced near vision impairment.
- Untreated vision issues linked to significant productivity loss.
- Spectacles can correct most vision problems in workers.
Vision problems are a significant concern for garment industry workers in Hyderabad, leading to decreased productivity, according to research from LV Prasad Eye Institute. A study involving 1,361 workers found that 6.9% had distance vision impairment and over 52% of those aged 40 or older experienced near vision impairment. Uncorrected refractive errors and presbyopia were identified as the primary causes, with most cases correctable by eyeglasses.
The study, published online on June 10, 2026, in Scientific Reports, involved workers from five garment factories. Researchers noted that 87% of the participants were women. Productivity loss scores were significantly higher for workers with visual impairments, indicating that blurred vision and presbyopia substantially hinder occupational efficiency, potentially reducing output by over 40%.
To address these issues, regular workplace eye examinations and timely provision of spectacles are recommended. On-site eye care services could overcome barriers such as lost wages and travel costs. Implementing such programs could enhance worker well-being and productivity, especially for women, contributing to economic development by improving earning potential.
