Colour Vision Deficiency: Prevalence and Associated Socio-demographic Characteristics among Commercial Motor-Vehicle Drivers in Benin City Metropolis, Edo State, Nigeria

Abstract

Objectives: Colour vision deficiency (CVD) is a suggested risk factor in road traffic injuries and deaths globally. This study aimed to determine the prevalence of CVD and associated socio-demographic characteristics (SDCs) among commercial motor vehicle drivers in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria.

Methods: A cross-sectional study of 341 commercial motor-vehicle drivers aged ≥ 20 years in Benin City Metropolis using a purposive sampling technique.  Socio-demographic data were collected using a self-administered questionnaire. Colour vision was assessed using Ishihara pseudochromatic colour plates. Data was analysed using IBM-SPSS version 29.0 and presented in tables and charts. Statistical significance was considered at P < 0.05.

Results: A total of 341 commercial drivers participated in the study. Males were 326 (95.6%), and females were 15 (4.4%). The prevalence of CVD was 9.6% (8.8% males and 0.8% females). Deuteronomaly was the major type of CVD. The age group 41-50 years, having a prevalence of 3.8% was the most affected. The prevalence of CVD increased with an increase in years of driving experience. The association between CVD and SDCs such as age groups, educational status, and years of driving experience, was not statistically significant (P >0.05).

Conclusion: The prevalence of CVD among drivers in this study was significant, and this could exacerbate road traffic accidents due to the inability to detect traffic signals and other road signs while driving. Routine colour vision assessment of drivers is recommended before issuance of driver’s license and relicensing.