Ophthalmology in Africa

Abstract

Problems of prevention and treatment of blindness in Africa are discussed with particular reference to Tanzania. Cataract accounts for fully half this blindness, and present measures to treat it are totally inadequate. The relationship between measles and vitamin A deficiency is discussed. Measles with its attendant corneal destruction accounts for most blindness in children. Blinding trachoma is seen as a community disease needing a community approach to factors such as waste disposal, water supply and cyclic reinfection. Primary eye care is seen as the key, through education at village level, to prevention and treatment of blindness. Training of village health workers is the essential first step.