Trachoma: Past, present and future

PURPOSE: To review the background, epidemiology and current management of trachoma in endemic areas and worldwide. METHODS: Review of literature. RESULTS: Trachoma is one of the leading causes of preventable blindness in developing countries. It was reported as one of the seven most neglected tropical diseases that can be prevented via drug administration. Its infliction is primarily aimed at those living in areas deprived of clean water and proper sanitation. It is estimated that trachoma is the cause of visual impairment in about 2.2 million people worldwide of which about 1.2 million are completely blind. With implementation of the SAFE (surgery, antibiotics, facial cleanliness, and environmental control) strategy with support from the International Trachoma Initiative (ITI) the incidence of trachoma has decreased significantly in the Middle East and North Africa region. CONCLUSION: With the enhancement of socioeconomic and sanitary status of people, advent of new generations of antibiotics, training of expert ophthalmologists and eye care facilities the prevalence of trachoma is decreasing.