Lessons from the Past: Examining the Historical Context of Trachoma Management in Iran (1925–1941)

Abstract

Trachoma was one of the most prevalent infectious illnesses in Iran during the first Pahlavi era, causing widespread suffering and blindness. This research aims to investigate the background of dealing with trachoma in Iran from 1925 to 1941. It seeks to answer questions about trachoma by using descriptive and analytical methods, drawing on documents and evaluating historical data. The results of the research show that during the first Pahlavi era, due to the serious health situation, there was a pressing need to address trachoma and take necessary steps. The government worked in a number of sectors to tackle the trachoma epidemic, including preventive measures, establishment of medical centers, budgetary approval and legislation approval, activities of ophthalmologist, and scientific research. Trachoma treatment involves general strengthening, local treatment (drugs, surgery, electrotherapy), and treatment of complications. The most important drug used to combat trachoma was sulfate de cuivre (copper sulfate). Lack of organized institutions, failure to correctly diagnose the disease, infrastructural issues, and centralist government policies, insufficient financial resources, and inadequate budget allocation were significant obstacles against eradicating and fighting the disease. From 1925 to 1941, the Iranian government made significant efforts to combat trachoma, but limited resources and infrastructure hindered long-term effectiveness. However, these early efforts laid the groundwork for future public health programs.

Keywords: Eye disease, First Pahlavi era, Trachoma, Medical history, Ophthalmology