India Declared Trachoma-Free, Honored by WHO
Introduction
On Tuesday, India received recognition from the World Health Organization (WHO) for eliminating trachoma as a public health problem. This makes India the third country in the region, after Nepal and Myanmar, to achieve this milestone.
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In addition to India, several other countries were acknowledged for their efforts in public health. Bhutan was praised for making progress in eliminating cervical cancer, and the Maldives and Sri Lanka were recognized for their control of hepatitis B among children. Timor-Leste received accolades for eliminating lymphatic filariasis, while six other countries met important health goals for reducing child mortality rates.
India's Success in Trachoma Elimination
Trachoma, a major cause of infectious blindness, is caused by poor hygiene and a lack of clean water. It spreads through contact with an infected person’s eye, nose, or throat secretions, or indirectly via flies. India’s achievement in eliminating this disease was made possible through strong government leadership, the dedication of ophthalmologists, and collaboration among healthcare workers. Together, they focused on effective surveillance, diagnosis, treatment, and promotion of good hygiene practices.
Recognition for Bhutan, Maldives, and Other Countries
Bhutan was honored for achieving key targets for eliminating cervical cancer, becoming the first country in the region to do so. The country’s success was attributed to strong leadership, health policies, and an organized healthcare system. Despite challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Bhutan made significant progress in vaccinating girls against HPV, screening women for cervical disease, and ensuring treatment for those affected.
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The Maldives and Sri Lanka were recognized for controlling hepatitis B among children. This achievement helps prevent serious complications like liver cancer and cirrhosis later in life.
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Timor-Leste was celebrated for eliminating lymphatic filariasis, a disease that can cause severe physical deformities. It became the fifth country in the region to eliminate the disease.
Countries Achieving Child Mortality Reduction Targets
Several countries, including the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea, Indonesia, Maldives, Sri Lanka, and Thailand, were honored for meeting global and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) targets related to child mortality. These goals aim to reduce the under-five mortality rate to 25 or fewer deaths per 1,000 live births and the neonatal mortality rate to 12 or fewer deaths per 1,000 live births by 2030. The stillbirth rate target is set at 12 or fewer per 1,000 births.
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These recognitions reflect the ongoing efforts of countries in the region to improve public health and meet international health goals.
Source: Inputs from various media SourcesÂ
