Leprosy control in Brazil

Leprosy Mailing List, April 16, 2009

 

Ref.:    Leprosy control in Brazil

From:  Lehman L., Belo Orizonte, MG, Brazil

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Dear Salvatore

I have been following the communications about Brazil on the leprosy mailing list and also the publicity in the Brazilian newspapers.  I have worked in Brazil for over 25 years. 

 

I am very proud that Brazil has the courage to step out and redefine a different strategy which focuses on disease control, assures the numbers of new cases are accurately calculated so there is not MDT shortages and areas with detection among children are targeted.  In addition they seek to include and improve the quality of care so that the issues in preventing disability and rehabilitation are not ignored but a part of the Strategy.  They realize to control, to care and to eliminate the problems associated with the disease is important but it will require commitment and a political desire for all to work together.  I know they have taken this position based on their professional expertise, scientific work and knowledge of the realities in Brazil .

 

Brazil has clearly defined their direction for Hansen´s disease CONTROL, TREATMENT and CARE so that the PROBLEMS ASSOCIATED WITH THE DISEASE MIGHT TRULY BE ELIMINATED.  I hope others can learn from the Brazilian experience and have the courage to also make this kind of commitment.

 

Linda Lehman,

Technical Consultant for American Leprosy Missions.

 

 

Linda F. Lehman, OTR MPH C.Ped
American Leprosy Missions, Technical Consultant
WEB: www.leprosy.org
Tel/Fax Brazil 55-31-3476-6842  or 55-31-9637-5576