Gender differences in trachomatous scarring prevalence in a formerly trachoma hyperendemic district in Tanzania.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Trachoma is a chronic conjunctivitis caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. Repeated infections lead to trachomatous conjunctival scarring which can progress to potentially blinding trachomatous trichiasis (TT). In trachoma hyperendemic conditions, women compared to men have an increased risk of scarring and TT, which can progress to blinding corneal opacification. This study determined if there were gender differences in scarring prevalence and severity when trachoma prevalence approaches elimination, in a formerly trachoma hyperendemic region.

Methodology/principal findings

A cross-sectional prevalence study was conducted amongst adults age 15 years and older in Kongwa district, Tanzania in 2019. 3168 persons over age 15 years agreed to be examined and h

SUBMITTER: Wolle MA 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10817155 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature