Population-based trachoma mapping in six evaluation units of Papua New Guinea

The purpose of this study was to determine the prevalence of trachoma in evaluation units (EUs) of grouped districts (woredas) in suspected trachoma-endemic areas of Papua New Guinea (PNG). Six population-based prevalence surveys were supported according to the methodology of the Global Trachoma Mapping Project.

The study concluded that the prevalence of active trachoma exceeded the WHO threshold for elimination in all six EUs; this means that all surveyed areas are eligible for implementation of the A, F and E components of the SAFE strategy (surgery, antibiotics, facial cleanliness and environmental improvement). Population-based services for trachomatous trichiasis (TT) surgery are not however required since all EUs had a prevalence of trachomatous trichiasis in adults below the elimination threshold of 0.2%. The indication that the trachoma in PNG might not have the blinding effects seen in many other countries requires further research.