Perhaps elimination is not the term to use with chronic illnesses

Leprosy Mailing List, March 2^nd, 2009

 

Ref.:    Perhaps elimination is not the term to use with chronic illnesses.

From:  Poorman E., Atlanta , GA , USA

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Dear Dr  Noto,

 

I refer to Dr Bendick’s message (LML Feb. 28^th, 2009).

 

I cannot speak to a rigorous criticism of the terminology, but I can say that in my work in the remaining colonies of Brazil , the word "elimination" was particularly hurtful to the residents.  Since they still suffer from the effects of leprosy, not to mention isolation, they do not consider themselves "cured," and "elimination" of leprosy to them can only happen when they die out.  As a result, many residents expressed that they believed the government was waiting for them to die.

 

Perhaps elimination is not the term to use with chronic illnesses.

 

Elisabeth Poorman

Medical student, Emory University

Atlanta , GA , USA