OCULAR EFFECTS OF CHRONIC SUNLIGHT EXPOSURE IN TEA ESTATE WORKERS OF SOUTHERN ASSAM

Background: Occupational sunlight exposure is a significant cause of ocular morbidity, particularly in populations engaged in outdoor labor.Tea estate workers in Southern Assam experience prolonged ultraviolet (UV) exposure, yet region-specific epidemiological data are limited. Objectives: To determine the prevalence and spectrum of ocular changes associated with chronic sunlight exposure in tea estate workers of Southern Assam. Methods:A cross-sectional observational study was conducted in selected tea estates. Participants aged ≥18 years, with ≥5 years of outdoor occupational exposure, were included. Demographic details, exposure history, and protective practices were documented. Comprehensive ocular examinations were performed, including visual acuity assessment, slit-lamp biomicroscopy, and fundus evaluation. Diagnoses were based on standard clinical criteria. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square tests to evaluate associations between exposure duration and ocular findings. Results: Of 240 participants (108 males, 132 females; mean age 42.3 ± 9.6 years), the most common ocular conditions identified were pterygium (34.6%), pinguecula (29.2%), cortical cataract (24.1%), and chronic conjunctivitis (18.8%). Photokeratitis was present in 5% of participants, mostly during peak harvest seasons. Fundus changes suggestive of early age-related macular degeneration were observed in 7.5% of cases. Workers with ≥15 years of exposure had significantly higher prevalence of pterygium (p < 0.01) and cortical cataract (p < 0.05).Only 3.8% reported regular use of UV-protective eyewear. Conclusion: Tea estate workers in Southern Assam exhibit a high prevalence of UV-induced anterior segment disorders, particularly pterygium and cortical cataract. Prolonged occupational sunlight exposure without adequate protection is a major risk factor.Implementing preventive strategies—such as provision of affordable UV-protective eyewear, community-based education, and regular ocular screening—could reduce ocular morbidity in this vulnerable population.