Trachoma Blog Post *Draft*

Trachoma is a bacterial infection that affects the eyes and is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is a major public health problem in many parts of the world, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to healthcare. 

Trachoma typically begins with mild conjunctivitis, or inflammation of the outer layer of the eye. This can result in redness, itching, as well as the production of discharge from the eyes. Over time, repeated infections can cause scarring of the conjunctiva and the inner eyelid, which can lead to a condition called trichiasis. Trichiasis is the inward turning of the eyelashes: this can cause the lashes to rub against the cornea and lead to further scarring. In severe cases, the scarring can lead to a condition called corneal opacity, which can result in blindness. Trachoma is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which is spread through contact with infected eye secretions or by flies that have come into contact with infected secretions. The bacteria infect the conjunctiva which  causes inflammation that can lead to scarring and trichiasis. 

Trachoma is primarily found in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to healthcare. It is most common in rural communities in Africa, Asia, and the Middle East. The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that trachoma is responsible for the blindness or visual impairment of approximately 1.9 million people worldwide, with the majority of cases occurring in sub-Saharan Africa. Women are disproportionately affected by the disease, with women being up to four times more likely to develop trichiasis than men. Risk factors for trachoma include poor hygiene, crowded living conditions, and limited access to clean water and sanitation facilities. Children are also at increased risk of infection, as they are more likely to come into contact with infected eye secretions or flies that carry the bacteria. Other risk factors include malnutrition and co-infection with other diseases such as HIV/AIDS.

Trachoma can be prevented through a combination of measures, including improved hygiene, access to clean water and sanitation facilities, and treatment with antibiotics. The WHO has implemented a comprehensive strategy for trachoma control, which includes the use of antibiotics to treat active infections, the provision of clean water and sanitation facilities, and the promotion of facial cleanliness to reduce the spread of infection. In cases of advanced trachoma, surgery may be required to correct trichiasis and prevent further scarring of the cornea. In addition, individuals with trachoma are at increased risk of developing other eye conditions such as glaucoma and cataracts, so regular eye exams are important for early detection and treatment.

In conclusion, trachoma is a bacterial infection that affects the eyes and is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is a major public health problem in many parts of the world, particularly in areas with poor sanitation and limited access to healthcare. Symptoms include conjunctivitis, scarring, and trichiasis, which can lead to blindness if left untreated. Prevention measures include improved hygiene, access to clean water and sanitation facilities, and treatment with antibiotics.

References: 

https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/trachoma

https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/trachoma/symptoms-causes/syc-20378505

https://www.aao.org/eye-health/diseases/what-is-trachoma