Relación entre los factores de riesgo ambientales y laborales en el desarrollo y severidad del pterigión en los trabajadores de campo de la Empresa de Agua Potable de la provincia de Santa Elena.

Abstract

This study examined the relationship between environmental and occupational factors and the development and severity of pterygium among field workers at AGUAPEN, the public water utility in Santa Elena province, Ecuador. The main objective was to determine how ultraviolet (UV) radiation exposure, dust, wind, and inadequate eye protection contribute to the onset and progression of this ocular disease. A cross-sectional, correlational observational design was applied to a sample of 100 field workers (85 % male; mean age 42.3 ± 8.7 years). Data collection included structured questionnaires (daily sun exposure hours, protective equipment usage, task type) and local meteorological records. Each participant underwent an ophthalmological examination to grade pterygium severity (I–IV). Statistical analysis comprised Pearson correlation coefficients and multivariate logistic regression to identify independent risk factors. Findings revealed an overall pterygium prevalence of 63 % (n = 63), with grade II being most common (42.9 %). Mean daily sun exposure was 6.8 ± 1.5 hours (UV index 9.2 ± 1.8), and 42 % of workers never used eye protection. Strong positive correlations were observed between daily exposure and severity (r = 0.78; p<0.001) as well as years of service and severity (r = 0.72; p<0.001). Multivariate analysis identified >6 h of daily sun exposure (adjusted OR 5.8; 95 % CI: 2.3–14.2; p<0.001) and lack of eye protection (OR 3.9; 95 % CI: 1.2–12.5; p=0.021) as independent predictors. Consistent use of UVfiltering sunglasses demonstrated a protective effect (OR 0.31; 95 % CI: 0.12– 0.78; p=0.013). The study concludes that the evaluated environmental and occupational factors have a direct, significant impact on pterygium development and progression among AGUAPEN field workers. It recommends the implementation of preventive measures such as providing UV-protective eyewear, ongoing training, continuous workplace condition monitoring, and strengthening occupational health regulations to reduce the incidence of this ocular condition.