The Magnitude of Trachoma Cases and Associated Factors Among Ophthalmic Clients Attending Menelik II Comprehensive Specialized Hospital, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Abstract

Abstract Back ground: Trachoma is the commonest infectious cause of blindness in our globe. It sustained to be endemic in many developing countries like Ethiopia. However, there is no study done in Menelik II comprehensive specialized hospital about the magnitude and associated factors of trachoma. Hence, the current study was to assess the magnitude and risk factors of trachoma infection in Central Ethiopia. Methods:A hospital based cross-sectional study was employed on 607 ophthalmic clients were selected by consecutive sampling technique. A pretested and structured questionnaire was applied to collect a range of a data on socio demographic, facility and service related and environmental factors. The outcome variable was measured by using frequency, cross-tabulation and percent. Multivariable binary logistic regression model was fitted using stepwise backward regression. We reported adjusted odd ratios with 95% confidence interval and statistical significance was declared at p-value below 0.05. Result: A total of 607 ophthalmic clients were included in this study. This result revealed that 8.4 % of ophthalmic clients have Trachomatous Trichiasis (95% CI: 6.1%-10.6%). Additionally, TrachomatousScar (2.5%), Trachomatous Follicle (1.8%), and Corneal Opacity (6.1%) were also found in Menelik II comprehensive specialized hospital. Those who were absent of kitchen (AOR= 0.147, 95% CI 0.05–0.40); a present of trash with in the compound (AOR =1.86, 95% CI 1.2-2.8) flies on child face (AOR =3.44, 95% CI 1.3–8.54) and clients without latrine utilization (AOR= 1.78, 95% CI 1.1-2.8) and daily laborers (AOR= 0.47, 95% CI 0.3-0.7) were more likely develop trachoma. Conclusions:The magnitude of trachoma in ophthalmic clients in the study area was found to be low according to the WHO threshold yet, it is public health threat. Absent of kitchen; poor environmental and personal sanitary conditions were relevant risk factors which could be further targeted in the fight against trachoma.