Daily Current Affairs : 9-October-2024
In 2024, the World Health Organization (WHO) officially declared that India has eliminated Trachoma as a public health problem. This makes India the third country in the WHO South-East Asia Region to achieve this important health milestone. This achievement aligns with the WHO’s 2021–2030 Neglected Tropical Disease Roadmap, which aims to eliminate 20 diseases by 2030. India’s success is not only a significant achievement for the country but also for global health efforts to reduce the burden of neglected diseases.
What is Trachoma?
Trachoma is an infectious eye disease caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis. It is one of the leading causes of blindness worldwide, particularly in developing regions. Here are some key facts about Trachoma:
- Cause: The disease is caused by a bacterial infection that affects the eyes.
- Transmission: Trachoma spreads through direct contact with infected eye or nasal secretions, as well as by flies that carry the bacteria.
- Symptoms: The disease starts with conjunctivitis (pink eye), and if left untreated, it can lead to repeated infections. This causes the eyelashes to turn inward (a condition called trichiasis), which scrapes the cornea and can result in blindness.
- Prevention and Treatment: Trachoma can be treated with antibiotics, such as azithromycin, especially in its early stages. In addition, improving sanitation, hygiene, and access to clean water are crucial for preventing its spread.
India’s Success in Eliminating Trachoma
India’s victory in eliminating trachoma reflects strong national efforts and health strategies:
- National Effort: The Indian government declared the country free of trachoma after conducting National Trachoma Prevalence Surveys from 2014 to 2017. The surveys found that the prevalence of active trachoma in the population was just 0.7%, a clear indication of successful control.
- Global Recognition: WHO praised India for its leadership in addressing the disease, citing the government’s commitment to health initiatives and the importance of collaboration with global health organizations.
Other WHO Regional Achievements
In addition to India’s success, other countries in the region have also made significant health strides. These include:
- Bhutan: Recognized for its progress in eliminating cervical cancer.
- Timor-Leste: Acknowledged for successfully eliminating lymphatic filariasis.
- Maldives and Sri Lanka: Praised for controlling Hepatitis B in children.
- Other Countries: Six countries were celebrated for their efforts in reducing under-five mortality and stillbirth rates.
Important Points:
- India Eliminates Trachoma: WHO declared India free from Trachoma as a public health problem in 2024.
- WHO’s 2021-2030 Roadmap: India’s achievement aligns with the WHO’s goal to eliminate 20 neglected tropical diseases by 2030.
About Trachoma:
- Cause: Trachoma is caused by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, leading to blindness.
- Transmission: It spreads through direct contact with infected eye or nasal secretions and flies that carry the bacteria.
- Symptoms: Starts as conjunctivitis (pink eye), leading to inward-turning eyelashes (trichiasis) and possible blindness.
- Prevention & Treatment: Early-stage Trachoma can be treated with antibiotics like azithromycin. Improved hygiene, sanitation, and access to clean water are also crucial.
India’s Achievement:
- National Effort: India declared itself free from Trachoma after National Trachoma Prevalence Surveys (2014-2017) showed just 0.7% prevalence of active trachoma.
- WHO Recognition: WHO praised India’s leadership in successfully eliminating the disease, highlighting government efforts.
Other Regional Health Achievements:
- Bhutan: Recognized for cervical cancer elimination targets.
- Timor-Leste: Acknowledged for eliminating lymphatic filariasis.
- Maldives & Sri Lanka: Praised for controlling Hepatitis B in children.
- Six countries: Recognized for reducing under-five mortality and stillbirth rates.
Why In News
The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially declared that India has eliminated Trachoma as a public health problem in 2024, making it the third country in the WHO South-East Asia Region to achieve this significant milestone, highlighting the country’s strong commitment to improving public health and combating neglected diseases.
MCQs about India Eliminates Trachoma
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What year did the World Health Organization (WHO) declare India free from Trachoma as a public health problem?
A. 2022
B. 2023
C. 2024
D. 2025
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Which of the following is the primary cause of Trachoma?
A. Virus
B. Fungus
C. Bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis
D. Parasitic infection
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What key strategies are most effective in preventing the spread of Trachoma?
A. Frequent vaccinations
B. Antibiotics, improved hygiene, and access to clean water
C. Public awareness campaigns
D. Surgical treatments
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Which of the following countries was NOT recognized for its health achievements at the WHO Regional Conference?
A. Bhutan
B. Timor-Leste
C. India
D. Bangladesh
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