Social stigma, poverty and complications of leprosy

Leprosy Mailing List, March 7^th, 2009

 

Ref.:    Social stigma, poverty and complications of leprosy

From:  Nwafor C., Enugu , Nigeria .

---

 

 

Dear Dr Noto,

 

I quite agree with Dr Barminus (LML February 28^th, 2009) on the issue of social stigma among people affected by leprosy.  What worries me most is the fact that governments of resource poor countries were this stigma is a big challenge are not doing enough to reduce the stigma.

 

Government in my country Nigeria is yet to domestic the Convention on the Rights of People with Disabilities.  Little efforts being made in areas of rehabilitation including social integration are spearheaded by organizations like the German Leprosy and Tuberculosis Relief Association (GRLA).  For instance GLRA Nigeria has developed a three year strategic plan transiting from Socio-economic rehabilitation (SER) to Community-based rehabilitation (CBR).  The idea is to involve communities and other stakeholders in efforts to reduce stigmatization of People with disabilities (PWD)s.

It is my candid opinion that Governments should through relevant Ministries take the issue of rehabilitation of PWDs seriously.  Appropriate legislation should be put in place to ensure that PWDs are not stigmatized in workplaces, communities etc.

 

Also, community education should be intensified to raise awareness about leprosy so that patients seek care promptly in order to reduce development of leprosy reactions that ultimately lead to disabilities, discrimination and poverty.

 

Together we can do it.  YES, WE CAN!

 

 

Dr Nwafor Charles C.

Medical Adviser.

GLRA Office,

35 Hillview Avenue Independence Layout,

Enugu

Nigeria