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Aims: To estimate the magnitude and the causes of blindness through a community based nationwide survey in Oman. This was conducted in 1996-7. Methods: A stratified cluster random sampling procedure [...]

It is generally accepted that eye infections occur more frequently if there is not an adequate supply of water for personal hygiene. Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva of the eye which is caused by viral or bacterial infection; a review of the literature showed that the incidence of conjunctivitis did not depend upon the availability of water. Trachoma is an eye infection caused by the bacteria Chlamydia trachomatis which if left untreated can cause blindness. Incidence of this eye infection is reduced with better access to water. The frequency of trachoma depends on both environmental conditions and behavioral patterns. Trachoma is more prevalent in hot and dry geographical areas which have reduced availability of water, but it is also associated with a lack of personal hygiene, crowded and impoverished living conditions, and possibly poor water quality. The disease is spread by human contact, flies, and contaminated clothes and towels. The socioeconomic situation was shown to be a more important risk factor for trachoma than the availability of water. Thus adequate water supplies are necessary, but not sufficient, to bring about a substantial decrease in the rate of trachoma. In conclusion, sustained efforts to improve the water supply in developing countries are justified in order to reduce the risk of trachoma, and the blindness that may result. (Consumer Summary produced by Reliance Medical Information, Inc.)