The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially recognized India’s elimination of trachoma as a public health issue, marking a major milestone in public health. Trachoma, a leading cause of blindness globally, is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. WHO Director-General Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus commended India for its dedication to eradicating this debilitating disease. India now joins Nepal, Myanmar, and 19 other countries around the world, including those in the WHO South-East Asia Region, in reaching this significant achievement.
Significance of the Achievement
The recognition from the WHO highlights India’s significant efforts in enhancing eye health and preventing diseases through its health programs. Trachoma, which once stood as a leading cause of blindness globally, has now been successfully controlled in India.
Historical Context and Initiatives
India’s battle against trachoma began in 1963 when the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare initiated a control project with assistance from WHO and UNICEF. This initiative focused on surgical treatments, antibiotics, and water, sanitation, and hygiene (WASH) programs. Over time, these efforts were incorporated into the National Program for Control of Blindness and Visual Impairment (NPCBVI), enhancing both their reach and effectiveness.
Achievements and Strategies
In 2024, comprehensive surveys confirmed that all previously endemic areas had met their elimination targets, thanks to a substantial decrease in trachoma prevalence. The proportion of blindness cases caused by trachoma dropped from 4% in 2005 to a mere 0.008% by 2018. The WHO validated these results and acknowledged the successful execution of the SAFE strategy, which includes Surgery, Antibiotics, Facial cleanliness, and Environmental improvement.
Surveillance and Research
Since 2019, India has been closely monitoring the situation to prevent the resurgence of trachoma. To ensure that the disease remains under control, the National Trachomatous Trichiasis Survey (2021-2024) is currently being conducted.
Health Outcomes
In 2021, over 69,000 individuals underwent surgical treatment for trachoma, while approximately 64.6 million people received antibiotics to combat the disease. These initiatives have significantly decreased the prevalence of trachoma, resulting in improved health outcomes nationwide.
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