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THRIVE(ing) Communities

A new study highlights the economic benefits of reading glasses for developing countries

  • By

  • Alun Evans

  • April 24, 2024

  • 2 min

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Objective:

To measure the impact of reading glasses on income and quality of life among rural workers in Bangladesh.

Approach:
  • Study Design: A randomized control study assessing 824 first-time spectacle wearers in rural occupations across 15 districts of Bangladesh.
Key Findings:
  • Monthly median income increased from US$35.30 to US$47.10 within eight months of receiving glasses.
  • Participants reported improved quality of life and ease in daily tasks such as preparing food, eating, and reading.
  • A substantial need for near glasses was identified, with widespread blurry vision among participants aged 35-65.
  • Only 35% of participants were literate; the majority used glasses for household tasks.
Interpretation:

Limitations:
  • The study population was limited to first-time spectacle wearers in rural Bangladesh.
  • Only 35% of participants were literate, which may affect the generalizability of the findings.
Conclusion:

Sources:

Original Source(s)

THRIVE(ing) Communities

  • by Alun Evans

  • April 24, 2024

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