Washing is an important self care technique to prevent and treat LF and Leprosy patients. Photo Credit: LEPRA Health in Action
According to The World Health Organization a ‘fundamental prerequisite for accelerating the elimination of lymphatic filariasis, is the integration of the programme with other disease control/eradication programmes’. Disability prevention is however an essential part of LF elimination.
Where people are already affected by the mosquito borne disease LEPRA Health in Action has found that an integrated approach using self-care techniques to treat patients with LF along with leprosy and other lower limb disabilities is reaping rewards.
In places like Bangladesh and northern India there are few specialist services to help disabled people and government health centres are often only able to offer primary health care. The result is that preventable disability can occur. In addition to the physical effects of these diseases patients’ self-esteem and economic well-being can also be affected. » Read more: Integrated Programs for Disability Prevention
