Trachoma Research Projects
Trachoma is the leading infectious cause of blindness. It is concentrated in low-income areas, particularly affecting multiple countries in Africa.
Trachoma begins in early childhood with repeated infection by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which causes inflammation of the conjunctiva (inside of the eyelids), referred to as active trachoma. This leads to progressive scarring and in-turning of the eyelashes (trichiasis), so that they scratch the surface of the cornea. The cornea becomes irreversibly scarred leading to visual impairment and blindness.
To control trachoma and prevent blindness, endemic countries are implementing the SAFE Strategy: Surgery for trichiasis, Antibiotics to treat infection, promotion of Facial cleanliness and Environmental improvements to supress transmission of infection.
Our trachoma research focuses on aspects of the SAFE strategy, including clinical trials to improve the management of trichiasis and antibiotic treatment, the immunopathogenesis of the disease process, and its socioeconomic impact. Our research is done with partners in several countries including Ethiopia, Tanzania and The Gambia.
Stronger-SAFE
Stronger-SAFE is a multi-year research project to address the global challenge of trachoma
Previous Research
Previous Trachoma Research
Previous trachoma research has focused on the management of trichiasis, antibiotics and infection pathology
Trachoma Research Projects
Trachoma is the leading infectious cause of blindness. It is concentrated in low-income areas, particularly affecting multiple countries in Africa.
Trachoma begins in early childhood with repeated infection by the bacterium Chlamydia trachomatis, which causes inflammation of the conjunctiva (inside of the eyelids), referred to as active trachoma. This leads to progressive scarring and in-turning of the eyelashes (trichiasis), so that they scratch the surface of the cornea. The cornea becomes irreversibly scarred leading to visual impairment and blindness.
To control trachoma and prevent blindness, endemic countries are implementing the SAFE Strategy: Surgery for trichiasis, Antibiotics to treat infection, promotion of Facial cleanliness and Environmental improvements to supress transmission of infection.
Our trachoma research focuses on aspects of the SAFE strategy, including clinical trials to improve the management of trichiasis and antibiotic treatment, the immunopathogenesis of the disease process, and its socioeconomic impact. Our research is done with partners in several countries including Ethiopia, Tanzania and The Gambia.
Stronger-SAFE
Stronger-SAFE is a multi-year research project to address the global challenge of trachoma.
Previous Trachoma Research
Previous trachoma research has focused on the management of trichiasis, antibiotics and infection pathology.