Strengthening resilience for a dignified and healthy life in Bangladesh
Situation:
According to the United Nations Human Development Index, Bangladesh ranks 130rd out of 193 countries and is therefore in the bottom third. With over 165 million inhabitants, it is one of the most densely populated countries in the world, with 65 per cent of the population living in rural areas.
Leprosy is a disease that occurs mainly in the poorest regions of the world and is closely linked to poverty. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), it is one of the neglected tropical diseases. Every year, around 200,000 people worldwide are newly diagnosed with leprosy, with over 3,000 new cases registered in Bangladesh alone.
Poverty often means poor health. The poorer people are, the higher their risk of contracting diseases such as leprosy. Lack of healthcare, poor living conditions and a lack of education about leprosy lead to a high degree of disability, stigmatisation and social exclusion of those affected.
Objectives:
Leprosy and other diseases, as well as mortality among the most vulnerable people, are reduced through improved healthcare and hygiene. The population, and in particular those affected, are educated about leprosy.
Training, contact tracing and medical treatment
Staff, local professionals, and project participants are equipped with technical and soft skills.
Project participants have improved access to quality Health services and infrastructure.
• Contact tracing, training healthcare workers, raising awareness, medical treatment, medical supplies.
• 3 years: 1,200 people trained, 2,400 medical supplies, 4,200 treatments
The sustainability of leprosy services is possible if the government provides the necessary resources. Our regular dialogue with local healthcare staff and on-the-job support are effective. This enables us to strengthen capacities in basic healthcare. Health officials with a positive attitude will keep leprosy on their agenda and support initiatives that build and maintain capacity and expertise on leprosy. In the long term, early detection and treatment of leprosy will be completely integrated into the national health system.
Holistic approach to eliminating leprosy
Leprosy Mission Switzerland pursues a holistic approach to combating leprosy, taking into account not only medical treatment but also social and societal aspects. It focuses on a comprehensive ZeroLepra strategy with the aim of not only stopping infection but also reducing disabilities and overcoming discrimination against those affected. This approach combines early detection, medical care, rehabilitation, education and social reintegration to provide holistic help to people and eradicate leprosy worldwide.
