A randomized controlled trial of the effect of near distance correction on productivity of presbyopic workers on tea plantations in Assam, India.

*SUBJECT TO FUNDING*

The World Health Organization estimates a billion people lack corrective eyewear. Evidence of the impact of correcting refractive error on productivity is needed to advocate effectively for governments, industry and others to invest in programs. Randomized trials show that glasses significantly improve children’s educatonal outcomes, but similar high-quality evidence is lacking for adults. We will collaborate with VisionSpring and Amalgamated Tea Estates in Assam, India, to carry out a randomized trial on the effect of providing near correction on producity of presbyopic workers. The large, stable work force (75,000, including many older workers), close monitoring of picking standards and strong commitment of the industry partner make this setting ideal.

Near vision will be measured on 2400 workers (estimated) to identify 1200 with uncorrected presbyopia (near vision < 6/18). After six weeks of baseline outcome assessment (mean daily weight picked and quality score), half of workers at random will be given near glasses (Intervention Group), while half (Control) will receive correction only at endline. Above outcomes will be assessed for both groups over 6 weeks. Main study analysis will be change in outcome between baseline and treatment period, comparing groups, with and without adjustment for baseline factors (age, near power, etc).

REQUIREMENTS

Candidates should have or expect to obtain a 2:1 or higher Honours degree or equivalent in a relevant biomedical or life sciences subject.

English Language

Candidates applying from countries where the first language is not English should produce evidence of their competence through a qualification such as IELTS or TOEFL score.

The minimum recommended score for the School of Medicine, Dentistry and Biomedical Science is:
• IELTS score of 6.0 with not less than 5.5 in each of the four component elements of listening, reading, speaking and writing taken within the last 2 years;
• TOEFL score of 80+ (internet basted test), taken within the last 2 years, with minimum component scores of; Listening 17, Reading 18, Speaking 20, Writing 17);
• A valid Certificate of Proficiency in English grade A or B;
• A valid Certificate of Advanced English grade A; or
• A first or upper second class honours degree from a university based in the UK, Republic of Ireland or other suitably quality assured location in a country deemed by the UK Border Agency to be majority English speaking.

For a list of English Language qualifications also accepted by the School and University please see the following link:
http://www.qub.ac.uk/International/International-students/Applying/English-language-requirements/

The English Language Unit (ELU) offers both pre-sessional and in-sessional courses in English for academic purposes and study skills. Courses vary in length and full information can be obtained from the ELU http://www.qub.ac.uk/tefl/