What Patients Need to Hear Before Surgery

Trachoma, caused by a bacterial infection, has seen a dramatic reduction due to public health efforts, with the WHO recently confirming Burundi and Senegal as the latest countries to eliminate its threat. The risk of trachoma has decreased by over 93% since 2002, impacting patients’ sight and quality of life. Sightsavers has facilitated numerous surgeries for trichiasis, highlighting the importance of community trust and education in encouraging affected individuals, particularly women, to seek surgical intervention. Persistent myths and community support are crucial in overcoming barriers to treatment.

About the Author(s)

Caleb Mpyet

Professor Caleb Mpyet is a trachoma specialist, epidemiologist and eye doctor. He is trachoma technical adviser for Sightsavers. Caleb trained as an ophthalmologist at Jos University Teaching Hospital, Nigeria. He is a fellow of the West African College of Surgeons and holds a Master of Science in Public Health for Eye Care from LSHTM, University of London.

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