The disease usually begins in early childhood, but does not cause blindness until much later in life as repeated infections cause inflamation and scarring on the inside of the eyelid. Trachoma, caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis is spread easily from person to person. Through the discharge from the eyes of an infected child, trachoma is passed to others by hands, on clothing, or by flies that are attracted to faces and runny noses. Repeated infections eventually cause eyelashes to turn inward and rub against the cornea, which produces pain and the scarring that leads to blindness. The tragic later stages of the disease occur in adulthood, when people are in their most productive years.
Trachoma debilitates families and communities.
In many countries, women, who are in close contact with children, are two to three times more likely to suffer from trachoma blindness than men. When mothers become blind, they are often not able to care for their children. Children with painful eye infections are not able to learn well in school. Blind adults may not be able to fully participate in the economy or earn a living for their families. Trachoma is prevalent in remote areas of poverty, overcrowding, and poor hygiene, particularly where clean water and health care are scarce.