A Comprehensive Evaluation of Visual Health among Commercial Drivers in Delhi NCR

Background: Visual field defects are another important area of concern for drivers. The visual field refers to the entire area that can be seen without moving the eyes or head. For drivers, having an unobstructed field of vision is essential to detect obstacles, pedestrians, or other vehicles on the road. Poor vision not only compromises the safety of the driver but also increases the risk of accidents, injuries, and fatalities among pedestrians and other road users.  Methodology: Drivers were initially screened at their respective workplaces. Those with potential ocular issues were referred to Safdarjung Hospital for a detailed eye examination. A standardized questionnaire was administered to record the participants' responses regarding their ocular health and any visual complaints. Following history-taking, a series of ophthalmic tests was conducted, including:Refractive error assessment,, Color vision assessment, Depth perception test & Visual field examination Additionally, a Slit Lamp Examination and Direct-Indirect Ophthalmoscopy was also performed.  Results: The most common ocular condition is refractive errors, affecting 40.2% of participants, followed by allergic conjunctivitis in 19.1% of cases. Cataracts and diabetic retinopathy are also notable, present in 13.9% and 11.1% of the subjects, respectively. The most prevalent issue is watering of the eyes, reported by 72.3% of drivers, followed by difficulty in tolerating bright light (65.2%) and itching in the eyes (58.9%).  Conclusion: Improved access to affordable eye care and greater awareness of visual health can reduce the risk of accidents, enhance the well-being of drivers, and ultimately contribute to safer roads in Delhi NCR.