Raising Public Awareness and Mobilizing Resources Against Neglected-Tropical Disease in Ghana

Raising public awareness and mobilizing resources against Neglected-Tropical Disease in Ghana.

Problem:

Lymphatic filariasis as a neglected tropical disease had been a serious health concern which had defied all odds of social inclusion and support to eliminate it, especially when it is presumed that it is a necessary chronic condition by the geographical location of a rural district.

Methods:

Data from 2010 Community Mass Distribution Therapy on lymphatic filariasis in a District was sent to its District Assembly to create the necessary support for care. Departmental heads, opinion leaders, leaders of faith based organizations, NGOs and other identifiable social groups are all present in the assembly as the primary and local level governmental level. The man hours lost per year and the year of life lost due to disability, and the ability to prevent them was made clearer at the assembly sessions for three months to sensitize them. NGOs, health related agencies, major co-operations and institutions provided funds and resources to enable the team to treat the clients. Volunteers were selected and trained from each community to distribute the drugs for one week, free of charge. WHO standardized tools were used to capture the data.

Results:

90% of the population in the districts was provided with the drug to treat their conditions. The program recorded 450 people seriously sick, 26 blind individuals, and 19 with hydroceole patients who were all at home. These patients were linked with the health care facilities for treatment and care. The assembly demonstrated its readiness to provide good governance by paying the first health insurance premium for them.

Conclusion:

Health care delivery is about effective public awareness and mobilization of resources for prompt action. It needs constant contact and linkage with the stakeholders who must be motivated to accept their role.