River blindness: A success story under threat?
2006
River Blindness: A Success Story under Threat?
publication
Evidence: high
Author Information
Author(s): María-Gloria Basáñez, Sébastien D. Pion, Thomas S. Churcher, Lutz P. Breitling, Mark P. Little, Michel Boussinesq
Primary Institution: Imperial College of Science, Technology and Medicine
Conclusion
The Onchocerciasis Control Programme has successfully prevented many cases of river blindness, but significant challenges remain in controlling the disease for the millions still at risk.
Supporting Evidence
- 600,000 cases of blindness have been prevented by the Onchocerciasis Control Programme.
- 18 million children have been born in areas freed from the risk of blindness.
- 25 million hectares of land have been made safe for resettlement.
Takeaway
A program helped many people avoid going blind from a disease called river blindness, but there are still many others who need help.
Limitations
The study highlights the ongoing risk of river blindness for millions who are not covered by the control program.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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