Prevalence, pattern, and factors associated with ocular morbidity among stone quarry workers in districts of Kampala and Mukono, Uganda

ABSTRACT Objective To determine the prevalence, pattern, and associated factors of ocular morbidity among stone quarry workers in Kampala and Mukono, Uganda. Methods and Analysis In a field-based cross-sectional study, we recruited 290 stone quarry workers using consecutive and simple random sampling. A pretested questionnaire was used to collect relevant information on patient history and ocular examination findings. Ocular morbidity was defined as any abnormal finding on eye examination. Associated factors were analyzed using logistic regression with odds ratios and 95% confidence intervals. Results The mean age of the participants was 35 years (SD +/-12). The prevalence of ocular morbidity was found to be as high as 80%. The common ocular disorders found included pinguecula, pterygium, presbyopia, conjunctival hyperpigmentation, and dry eye. There was a statistically significant relationship between ocular morbidity and the following factors: age over 40 years, type of work engaged at the quarry, duration of 5 years and greater working at the quarry, inconsistent usage of protective eyewear and no observation of any workmate suffering vision-threatening eye injuries. Conclusion The prevalence of ocular morbidity was very high at 80%, with the most common morbidities being ocular surface disorders. The associated factors included age, type of work performed at the quarry, duration of working at the quarry, use of protective eyewear, and lack of observation of any workmate suffering vision-threatening eye injuries. Main limitations included potential recall bias in regards to self-reported occupational accidents, and lack of pre-employment ocular health records for baseline comparison. Key messages 1 What is already known on this topic Work-related ocular injuries are a major global public health concern and have been prioritized by the WHO and ILO due to their impact on health, productivity and achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals. However, occupational ocular morbidity among stone quarry workers in Uganda is poorly documented, creating a critical evidence gap that this study sought to address to inform occupational safety and eye health policy. What this study adds This study provides the first evidence from Uganda demonstrating a very high burden of ocular morbidity (80%) among stone quarry workers, with conjunctival disorders and presbyopia being the most common conditions. It also identifies key occupational and behavioral factors associated with ocular morbidity, including older age, high-risk quarry tasks, longer duration of work, inconsistent use of protective eyewear and lack of exposure to severe eye injury events. How this study might affect research, practice or policy The findings highlight the urgent need for improved access to and proper use of eye protective equipment, and strengthened enforcement of occupational safety regulations in quarry settings. These results can inform occupational health policy, guide targeted preventive interventions, and serve as baseline data for future research in similar low-resource settings.