Prevalence of Conjunctivitis Among Traders at Onitsha Main Market, Anambra State

Conjunctivitis remains a highly prevalent external ocular condition in Nigeria, particularly among individuals working in open-air, dusty, or crowded environments. This study investigates the prevalence and risk factors of conjunctivitis among traders at the Onitsha Main Market in Anambra State, a densely populated commercial hub in the South East geopolitical zone. The research adopts a descriptive cross-sectional design, targeting adult traders who have worked in the market for at least six months. A sample of 350 participants will be selected using systematic random sampling. Data collection instruments include a structured questionnaire capturing sociodemographic information, hygiene practices, and work environment characteristics, alongside a slit-lamp biomicroscopy examination to confirm diagnosis. Logistic regression will be used to identify significant predictors of conjunctivitis occurrence. It is hypothesized that dust exposure, inadequate hand hygiene, and shared ocular materials will be significant risk factors. Findings are expected to reveal a high burden of bacterial and allergic conjunctivitis linked to occupational hazards. Recommendations will focus on health education, provision of protective eyewear, and access to affordable eye care services at the market level. This study fills a critical research gap in occupational eye health for informal sector workers in the South East zone and offers actionable insights for public health intervention. Keywords: conjunctivitis, traders, Onitsha market, occupational eye health, risk factors