By Tamsin Keeney and Elliana Hopwood
A global campaign to tackle the stigma experienced by sufferers of little-known tropical diseases was launched in Liverpool today.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) announced a package of new support measures at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine. The help is designed to support the mental health of people with conditions known as Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs), including addressing mental health problems and reducing stigma.
LSTM was one of multiple international developers who collaborated with WHO and the Neglected Tropical Disease NGO Network to develop the package.
Speaking at the launch, Jonathan King, the Lead of the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) for WHO, quoted a patient saying: “When they see me, they turn their head. I have a son and daughter, but they don’t stay with me or support me.”
LF is a NTD caused by parasitic worms. According to WHO, it impairs the lymphatic system. Around 863 million people worldwide are at risk.
Mr King added: “While effective care may be available, people with LF often are afraid to even seek care due to the stigma at home, in the community, and in the health care system.”
He also said that the Essential Care Package aims to remove barriers for healthcare and improve care beyond physical impairments to include mental health needs.
Emmanuel Zaizay, a man from Liberia who had been diagnosed with an NTD, also spoke about his experience, saying that his diagnosis caused isolation, stigma, and delayed education.
He explained how the NTD programme has had a positive impact on his life. It has fostered community acceptance and reduced social stigma.
This was achieved through peer support group and easier access to mental health services, including psychosocial training for support workers.
David Molyneux, an Emeritus Professor at LSTM said: “This represents collaborative partnership at its best, drawing on the skills and experience with many individuals and organisations, committed to improving the life of millions, was also strongly influenced by the experiences of those living in these conditions.”
The Essential Care Package hopes to reach all the communities affected by NTDs to improve the mental wellbeing of those living in these communities.
 at the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM).){kind=link}