Trachoma

Trachoma is an eye disease caused by a bacterium called Chlamydia trachomatis. The infection can cause irreversible blindness. It’s an issue in poor and rural areas throughout the world with poorer hygiene, limited access to clean water and sanitation, and problems with crowding.

How common is trachoma?

In 2020, there were an estimated 32.8 million people in the world treated with antibiotics for trachoma, with over 42,000 people treated with surgery for the advanced form of the disease. About 1.9 million people are blind or visually impaired because of trachoma. Trachoma is responsible for about 1.4% of all cases of blindness throughout the world.

More than 40 countries classify trachoma as a public health issue, and Africa is the most affected continent. Other areas where trachoma exists include Asia, Australia, the Middle East and Central and South America.