Rapid Assessment of Active Trachoma and Trichiasis in Localities Implementing the SAFE Vietnam Program

Project Overview

• Field: Communicable Disease Prevention
• Duration: 09 – 11/2003
• Funder/client: ITI Vietnam
• Implementing agency: Center for Environmental and Health Studies (CEHS)
• Location: Vĩnh Phúc, Hà Tây and Hưng Yên

Introduction

The project conducted a rapid assessment of active trachoma and trichiasis status in selected localities under the SAFE Vietnam program. Results helped determine disease prevalence and trichiasis detection/treatment needs, and provided information to adjust trachoma control plans in intervention areas.

The SAFE program is an integrated approach to trachoma control comprising trichiasis surgery, antibiotics, facial cleanliness and environmental improvement. Community screening was particularly important for early detection of trichiasis cases at risk of corneal damage and vision loss.

CEHS's Role

CEHS organized and coordinated the entire rapid assessment in the selected localities, with Dr. Nguyễn Đức Hồng, Dr. Trịnh Hữu Vách and MSc. Nguyễn Văn Học. The expert team was responsible for developing the implementation plan, organizing screening, monitoring data collection quality, processing data, analyzing results, and finalizing the technical report.

Key Activities

• Conducting active trachoma and trichiasis screening across 700 communes in the project areas.
• Conducting in-depth trichiasis screening in 25 selected villages.
• Collecting information on active trachoma and trichiasis prevalence and community intervention needs.
• Checking, processing and analyzing survey data.
• Developing the rapid assessment report as a basis for planning and adjusting trachoma control activities under the SAFE program.

Key Results

• Completed large-scale active trachoma and trichiasis screening across 700 communes in Vĩnh Phúc, Hà Tây and Hưng Yên provinces.
• Collected field data on trachoma and trichiasis status to support treatment needs assessment and SAFE program effectiveness monitoring.
• Provided a database to support intervention prioritization, particularly for high-risk communities or those needing trichiasis surgery.
• Finalized the analysis report, proposing directions to strengthen early detection, case management and trachoma control solutions in communities.