National Guinea worm Eradication Programme was launched in –
**Core Concept**
The National Guinea worm Eradication Programme is a public health initiative aimed at eliminating Guinea worm disease, a neglected tropical disease caused by Dracunculus medinensis. This programme involves surveillance, case detection, and treatment to prevent the spread of the disease.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The programme was launched in 1986 by the World Health Organization (WHO) in collaboration with the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF). The primary goal was to eliminate the disease by improving access to safe drinking water, sanitation, and health education. The programme focused on surveillance, case detection, and treatment, which involved administering oral medication to infected individuals and removing the worm through a small incision.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** This is not correct as the programme was not launched in the early 20th century; it was launched in the mid-20th century.
**Option B:** This is not correct as the programme was not launched in the 1960s; it was launched in the 1980s.
**Option C:** This is not correct as the programme was not launched in the 1990s; it was launched in the 1980s.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The Guinea worm disease is often spread through contaminated water, which is why improving access to safe drinking water and sanitation is crucial in preventing the disease. The programme's success has been remarkable, with a 99.9% reduction in cases since its launch.
**Correct Answer: C. 1986**