Impact of Not Controlling Trachoma in Southern Sudan
Author Information
Author(s): Ngondi Jeremiah M., Matthews Fiona E., Reacher Mark H., King Jonathan, Brayne Carol, Gouda Hebe, Emerson Paul M.
Primary Institution: Institute of Public Health, University of Cambridge
Hypothesis
What will happen if we do nothing to control trachoma?
Conclusion
The study shows that failing to control trachoma will lead to a significant portion of life expectancy spent with trichiasis and visual impairment, especially among women.
Supporting Evidence
- The overall prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis was 6.0%.
- Women were predicted to live longer and spend more time with trichiasis compared to men.
- At age five, males expected to live 7.0 years with trichiasis, while females expected 10.9 years.
Takeaway
If we don't do anything to stop trachoma, many people in Southern Sudan will live a lot of their lives with eye problems, especially women.
Methodology
Cross-sectional surveys were conducted in 11 districts in Southern Sudan to estimate trachomatous trichiasis prevalence and visual acuity.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from village guides directing survey teams to households with known cases of trichiasis.
Limitations
The study may have biases due to the sampling method and the reliance on data from only one district for vision status.
Participant Demographics
The study included 23,139 participants, with 43% being males.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.05
Confidence Interval
95% CI = 6.2–7.8 for males, 95% CI = 9.9–11.9 for females
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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