Final report about stage II collaboration project on leprosy rehabilitation

Title:
Final report about stage II collaboration project on leprosy rehabilitation

Author:
Zhang G, Yan L, Jiang J , Wei X, Wu Y, Li W, Chen X, Samson PD*, Watson JM*, Piefer A*

Address:
National Center for STD and Leprosy Control, Institute of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 12 Jiangwangmiao Road, Nanjing 210042, P. R. China
The Leprosy Mission International*

Source:
Chin Med Sci J September 2000, 15(3): 187-190

Abstract:
OBJECTIVES: To undertake the pilot experiments of prevention of disability (POD) in 14 different geographical areas to serve as examples for future development of rehabilitation work in China and in Asia. METHODS: According to the principles and national criterion, 27 000 people affected by leprosy were selected and assessed using disability record forms at beginning and followed up regularly for observing changes of different indicators. RESULTS: A total of 197 neuritis cases were detected and treated with prednisolone out of 407 new or active cases. Self-care training of eyes, hands and feet were conducted for 10 500 disabled people affected by leprosy. Comprehensive therapy was given to 804 cases having complicated ulcers of which 1 055 cases have got their ulcers healed. Out of 706 prostheses, 613 were given to patients with satisfactory results. Surgical treatment was given to 269 cases and 251 have shown good progress. CONCLUSIONS: Most of patients have got benefit from the project in function ofr appearance which is very helpful for their going back to the society and agreed by foreign experts during the final evaluation. The experiences from the project can be implemented in the whole country.

Key words: Leprosy; rehabilitation; disability

Language: English