Under the WHO ‘Vision 2020′ programme, the `SAFE’ strategy is adopted for which of the following diseases –
**Question:** Under the WHO 'Vision 2020' programme, the `SAFE' strategy is adopted for which of the following diseases -
A. Trachoma
B. Glaucoma
C. Trachoma and cataract
D. Trachoma and blindness prevention
**Correct Answer:**
**Core Concept:** The WHO 'Vision 2020' programme is a global initiative aimed at eliminating avoidable blindness by 2020. The acronym 'SAFE' represents a strategy to control and eliminate five major causes of blindness:
1. **S**urgery: Treating cataract, which is a major cause of blindness.
2. **A**ntibiotics: Using antibiotics like Azithromycin to control trachoma, a leading cause of blindness due to bacterial infection.
3. **F**acility-based care: Ensuring access to proper healthcare facilities for diagnosis and treatment of various diseases.
4. **E**ducation: Raising awareness about eye health, hygiene, and prevention of eye diseases.
5. **E**vidence-based policy: Implementing evidence-based policies and guidelines for eye health management.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
The correct answer, D, includes both Trachoma (A) and blindness prevention (D). The acronym 'SAFE' is specifically designed to address the five major causes of blindness, including Trachoma and blindness prevention. The other options either do not mention Trachoma or do not cover blindness prevention.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A) Option A (Trachoma) focuses on a single disease but does not cover the broader aspects of the 'SAFE' strategy, including blindness prevention.
B) Option B (Glaucoma) is a different disease and does not align with the 'SAFE' strategy.
C) Option C (Trachoma and cataract) covers two diseases, but cataract is not addressed under the 'SAFE' strategy, which is primarily focused on Trachoma and blindness prevention.
**Clinical Pearl:**
The 'SAFE' strategy is a crucial tool for reducing visual impairment and blindness worldwide. By addressing the major causes of blindness, including Trachoma and promoting blindness prevention measures, this approach contributes to improving global eye health and reducing the burden of preventable blindness.