Face washing promotion for preventing active trachoma

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Infectious Diseases
• Public Health

Background:

• Trachoma is a leading cause of preventable blindness, affecting millions globally, particularly in developing nations.
• Active trachoma impacts approximately 146 million individuals, with nearly six million blind from its complications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the impact of face washing interventions on active trachoma prevalence in endemic communities.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of randomized and quasi-randomized controlled trials.
• Searched multiple databases (CENTRAL, MEDLINE, EMBASE, LILACS) and clinical trial registries.
• Included trials comparing face washing (with or without antibiotics) to antibiotic treatment alone.

Main Results:

• One trial indicated face washing with topical tetracycline significantly reduced severe active trachoma and increased facial cleanliness compared to tetracycline alone.
• No significant reduction in non-severe active trachoma was observed with the combined intervention.
• Another trial found no significant benefit of eye washing alone or with tetracycline for follicular trachoma in children.

Conclusions:

• Face washing alongside topical tetracycline may effectively reduce severe trachoma and enhance facial hygiene.
• Current evidence does not substantiate the efficacy of face washing alone or with topical tetracycline for active trachoma reduction.