Prevention of leprosy related disabilities in Brazil

In the state of Algoas for example LEPRA has facilitated procedures which ensure that leprosy patients with physical disabilities have access to prompt rehabilitation services.  This prevents the worsening of existing disabilities which can affect their ability to find work and reinforce the stigma associated with leprosy.

In the state of Ceara LEPRA is improving access to referral services, whilst in the state of Paraiba LEPRA has helped set up self-care groups whose members have been learning from and teaching each other self-care practices and finding out about their rights to health and quality of life.

Through this programme government health staff receive leprosy care training within disability rehabilitation clinics. The training is focused on prevention of disabilities, ulcer treatment, protective footwear provision and post reconstructive surgery physiotherapy. A trained sandal maker is assigned to work in the rehabilitation centre. This ensures the provision of customised sandals for people affected by leprosy to prevent disability and injury.

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