Risk Factors of Potentially Blinding Trachoma in Loodokilani Ward, Kajiado County, Kenya

Abstract

Trachoma is a neglected tropical disease, that is most prevalent in the nomadic communities greatly associated with poverty. This study sought to determine the ascendancy of potentially blinding trachoma and its prospect among adults aged 18-60 years in Loodokilani ward, Kajiado County. This research was a graphic transverse study. Multistage sampling technique was used where every location represented one unit. The initial stage used the random sampling which was used for listing of households in the study area. The second stage involved going through the listed households to identify patients. A total of 155 male and 267 female adults residing in the area of study were sampled. The comprehensive occurrence of potentially blinding trachoma was established as 44.5%. Sorted by age and location, it was noted that age was statistically vital (p <0.05) to potentially blinding trachoma. Geographical locations were also significant (p<0.05) to potentially blinding trachoma. However, gender of patients was not scientifically reliable (p>0.05) to location. Majority of the respondents did not own or utilize toilets; hence, a clear indication of open defecation especially at night that led to increased number of vector-musca sorbent flies responsible for chlamydia trachomatis bacteria which causes infection. Previous studies indicate that Kajiado West subcounty recorded the least average of 11.6% on water accessibility as compared to the county`s average of 62.3%. Due to the scarcity of water there was limited practice of hand and face washing. It was noted that all facial cleanliness and environmental hygiene indicators were statistically significant (p<0.05) to prevalence of potentially blinding trachoma, apart from presence of impermeable floored toilets and presence of eye seeking flies. Consistent community sensitizations on regular facial and environmental hygiene to achieve a trachoma free environment was recommended. Mass drug administration should continue annually until the prevalence drops below 5%.