Trachoma: the leading cause of infectious blindness worldwide
Trachoma is a bacterial infection that can cause irreversible blindness if left untreated. In its advanced stage, known as trachomatous trichiasis, it causes painful inward turning of the eyelid and lashes, which scrape against the cornea and can lead to partial or total vision loss. Once widespread globally, it remains the leading cause of preventable blindness.
According to the WHO, 97 million people currently live in areas where trachoma is endemic, most of them in Africa, particularly women and children in remote rural regions with poor sanitation.
OPC’s work
Our goal is to eliminate trachoma as a public health problem in endemic countries and to prevent blindness caused by trachomatous trichiasis through surgical intervention.
- We conduct epidemiological surveys to assess disease prevalence.
- We implement mass drug distribution programs using antibiotics to treat and prevent trachoma.
- We provide surgical treatment for trachomatous trichiasis to prevent blindness in affected individuals.
- We promote hygiene education programs to reduce trachoma transmission.
All of these efforts are carried out in partnership with the Ministry of Health in each country to support national needs and priorities.
