Self-perceived vision in farming, forestry, and fishing occupations

Using data from the 2005-2006 and 2007-2008 NHANES questionnaires, we evaluated self-perceived vision difficulty in individuals with a history of farming, forestry, and fishing (FFF) occupations. A self-perceived vision difficulty indicator was derived from responses to 3 separate measures. Those indicating farming, forestry, or fishing as longest job worked were classified as having an FFF history and compared to those reporting any other occupation. Logistic regression analyses utilizing NHANES sampling weights were conducted. After controlling for age, gender, race/ethnicity, education, and income-to-poverty ratio, those with an FFF history were 76% more likely to report vision difficulty than those having an alternate occupational history. Personal protective equipment and routine optometric examination may be particularly prudent for this occupational group.