Decentralization of Nodulectomy, intralesional SSG and Cryotherapy conducted, January 14-18, 2024, Gamo zone, South Ethiopia Region

NaPAN successfully facilitated the theoretical and hands-on training on nodulectomy, intralesional SSG, and cryotherapy from January 14 to 18, 2024 in Gamo zone, South Ethiopia region.

The training involved a theoretical session on podo morbidity management in Arbaminch town on January 14, followed by hands-on training on nodulectomy at Zefine health centers on January 16. Fourteen individuals, including health officers, nurses, and woreda NTD coordinators from Zefine, Gocho, and Ezo health centers received the training. During the hands-on training, five people with nodules received the intervention. Additionally, the trainers provided hands-on training on intralesional Sodium Stibogluconate (SSG) to health workers from Dorze, Daradime and Gugie-Boyra health centers on January 15th, 17th and 18th respectively. During the hands-on training in intralesional SSG and cryotherapy with a cotton-tipped applicator, a total of 17 individuals with uncomplicated and localized cutaneous leishmaniasis received the service. Throughout the project period until the end of July 2024, a total of 100 podoconiosis patients with nodules and a total of 300 people with localized cutaneous leishmaniasis will be treated. The project has also distributed different medical supplies and 150 pairs of custom-made shoes that cost ETB 448,588.00.

 

Lymphedema and Hydrocele Cases confirmatory assessment conducted from Dec 18-19, 2023

 

With the financial support of END FUND/RLMF, NaPAN, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health, Regional Health Bureaus and district health offices, successfully conducted a household census survey in 24 endemic areas from August 25, 2023, to October 25, 2023. This house-to-house morbidity mapping identified about 15,762 people with lymphedema (lower limb swelling) and 584 individuals with hydrocele (scrotal swelling).To understand and evaluate how accurately and correctly the Health Extension Workers (HEWs) identified the lymphedema and hydrocele cases as per the training they received, NaPAN has started facilitating an independent confirmatory assessment among randomly selected districts and respective identified LF cases.

To this end a confirmatory assessment has been conducted from December 18-19, 2023 among randomly selected 19 lymphedema and 4 hydrocele cases in Jinka town (from Ari Zone) and Bena-Tsemay district (from South-Omo Zone). The assessment was conducted by Dr. Arji Telo, a senior surgeon at Jinka General Hospital and confirmed that 84.2% of the selected lymphedemas and the selected hydrocele 100% were correctly matched, and the rest 15.8% was Poly arthritis and venous insufficiency. This evaluation will continue in the remaining 22 woredas.

NaPAN convened Experience Sharing Workshop on December 15, 2023

One of the missions of NaPAN is organizing and facilitating experience sharing platforms among its member organizations thereby creating an opportunity for each members to share their experience, best practices and lessons learned. To this end, NaPAN has successfully convened a one day experience sharing workshop on December 15, 2023 in Friendship Hotel, Addis Ababa.

During the workshop, member organizations had the opportunity to know each other , what each organizations' focus areas and the possibility of collaborations. Participants had reiterated that such workshops and other forms of experiences sharing mechanisms should be strengthened. They also strongly recommended that NaPAN should make a strategic shift of addressing any of  the country's pressing problems like emergency response, WASH, economic empowerment and Human right by expanding the thematic areas and strategic priorities.

Grant Secured to Expand Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention Intervention in LF-Endemic Districts of Ethiopia

 

                                 

In a significant development, a grant has been secured to expand the Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention (MMDP) intervention in 24 lymphatic filariasis (LF)-endemic districts of Ethiopia. The grant, provided by the End Fund aims to enhance the quality of life for individuals suffering from LF-related disabilities and improve overall public health in these communities.

LF, commonly known as elephantiasis, is a debilitating neglected tropical disease caused by parasitic worms transmitted through mosquito bites. The disease can lead to severe swelling and disfigurement, causing immense physical and psychological suffering for those affected. Ethiopia is one of the countries heavily burdened by LF, with a significant number of individuals experiencing long-term disabilities as a result.

The grant, totaling $600k will be directed towards assessing morbidities and implementing comprehensive MMDP interventions in the 24 LF-endemic districts. The key objectives of the intervention include:

1. Strengthening healthcare systems: The grant will support the training of healthcare professionals, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide self-care for LF-related disabilities. This will ensure that individuals affected by LF receive appropriate medical attention and support.

 2. Disability prevention measures: The grant will support the implementation of preventive measures, such as hygiene promotion and self-care practices, to minimize the risk of secondary infections and complications among individuals affected by LF. These measures will help prevent further deterioration of their health and improve their quality of life.

 3. Morbidity Mapping: The grant will empower health extension workers to identify and register affected cases. They will make house to house visits to identify and register people with lymphedema and hydrocele. This task is critical in guiding and designing morbidity management services in endemic districts.

The grant represents a collaborative effort of the ministry of health and other stakeholders. NaPAN and its members aim to alleviate the suffering caused by LF-related disabilities and improve the overall health outcomes of affected communities.

This grant signifies a significant step forward in our commitment to improving the lives of individuals affected by lymphatic filariasis in Ethiopia. By expanding Morbidity Management and Disability Prevention interventions, we aim to alleviate suffering, enhance mobility, and empower communities to lead healthier lives.

NaPAN facilitated nodulectomy intervention from June 16 -19, 2022 in Amhara region

One of the activities of the Next Steps for Podoconiosis Project funded by IZUMI foundation is providing nodulectomy service to about 90 podoconioisis affected individual with minor nodules that prevent them from wearing regular shoes.

Accordingly, NaPAN in collaboration with Amhara Regional Health Bureau, IOCC-Ethiopia and Felegetena Podoconiosis Integrated Development Organization (FTPIDO) facilitated the nodulectomy service for a total of 34 individuals with podoconiosis, and among them 12 were female. Of the 34 individuals, a total of 14 individuals received nodulectomy in both legs.  The Nodulectomy was carried out in three different places Burie, Finoteselam in West Gojam and Hamusit in South Gondar zone.

Ten affected individuals  from the Jabitehnan district, two from Sekela, fourteen from Burie Zuria district, two each from Dembecha, Quarit, Dera, and Fogera districts received the service.

Dr. Worku Mekonnen (left) undergoing the nodulectomy in Burie Primary Hospital and individuals (right) who received nodulectomy service.

This simple intervention, a surgical debulking of nodules has led to a vivid improvement in the quality of life the service benefiting individuals as it prevents the barrier to wear shoes thereby keeping foot hygiene and freeing from unnecessary sufferings due to recurrent acute attacks.

 

 

 

       

Our Vision: To see Ethiopia free of podoconiosis

Our Mission: To coordinate and standardize efforts for the elimination of podoconiosis, to build the capacity of members and other stakeholders, and to support research for evidence based interventions.