How Your Contact Lens Order Supports the Fight Against Trachoma

For many of us, clear vision is something we rely on without a second thought. But for millions of people living in underserved and remote communities, that clarity is slipping away—often because of a preventable eye disease called trachoma.

At Blue Planet Optics, we believe every order is a chance to support access to essential care for people at risk of losing their sight.

Living With Trachoma

Trachoma starts with a bacterial infection that spreads easily in places without reliable access to clean water and sanitation. Over time, repeated infections scar the inside of the eyelid, causing it to turn inward. Eventually, the eyelashes begin scraping the surface of the eye—slowly damaging vision and causing daily pain.

This progression can be subtle at first. Many people live with discomfort, blurred vision, and irritation for years without realizing that help exists—or being able to reach it.

And the impact goes beyond the eyes. Children may leave school because they can’t see clearly. Adults may struggle to work or care for their families. Something as simple as reading or walking becomes a daily challenge.

More on Preventable Blindness 

When someone begins to lose their sight, the effects ripple out. Vision loss can isolate individuals, limit independence, and make it harder for families and communities to break cycles of poverty.

Imagine the anxiety of watching your world slowly blur, knowing it’s treatable—but out of reach.

That’s the reality for many living with trachoma. And that’s where we believe support can make a difference.

How Your Blue Planet Optics Order Helps

Every time you order contact lenses from Blue Planet Optics, a portion of your purchase goes toward programs working directly in trachoma-affected regions. We partner with organizations like Sightsavers to support community-led solutions, including:

• Surgery to correct inward-turning eyelids
  
• Antibiotics to clear active infections
  
• Education around facial cleanliness to stop the spread
  
• Water and sanitation improvements to prevent future outbreaks
  

These programs are able to reach people who might otherwise face barriers to care—due to cost, distance, or lack of supplies—and your purchase helps.

Why This Matters

We believe that access to clear vision should be a basic human right. Trachoma might feel far removed from our daily lives, but when we connect through care and shared humanity, the distance becomes smaller.

Being part of this solution is easy. You don’t have to take any extra steps. Every box of lenses you order from us includes a $1 donation to the fight against trachoma—automatically.

Together, we’re helping ensure that clearer sight—and a brighter future—is within reach for everyone.

Frequently Asked Questions About Trachoma and Our Giveback Program

What exactly is trachoma?

Trachoma is a contagious bacterial eye infection and the world’s leading infectious cause of blindness. It spreads in areas where clean water and sanitation are limited, and repeated infections cause eyelid scarring that damages vision.

How does trachoma cause blindness?

As the eyelid scars, it can turn inward. The eyelashes then rub against the cornea, slowly causing pain, blurred vision, and eventually blindness if untreated.

Is trachoma preventable or treatable?

Yes! Trachoma can be treated with antibiotics, and in more advanced cases, surgery may be necessary to correct the eyelid damage. It’s also preventable with good hygiene and access to clean water and sanitation.

How does Blue Planet Optics help?

We donate $1 from every box of lenses sold to Sightsavers, which provides treatment, surgery, education, and infrastructure support in communities facing trachoma.

Do I have to do anything extra to donate?

Not at all. The donation is included automatically in every order. Just shop for your lenses as usual—we’ll take care of the rest.

Why focus on trachoma?

Trachoma affects some of the world’s most underserved populations and is a leading cause of preventable blindness. Supporting its elimination is one of the most powerful ways to protect vision and improve quality of life in vulnerable communities.

Can children get trachoma?

Yes—children are particularly vulnerable, especially in areas without access to clean water or consistent hygiene practices. Early treatment is critical to preventing long-term damage.

Where can I learn more?

Visit Sightsavers.org to learn more about global efforts to eliminate trachoma and support lasting change.