DILI, 29 january 2024 (TATOLI) – World Health Organization (WHO) seeks to create a supportive environment for those affected by leprosy, aiming to reduce the social stigma associated with the disease in Timor-Leste.
- What type of advocacy has WHO been undertaking for leprosy in Timor-Leste?
WHO country representative, Arvind Mathur said every year WHO supports MoH in commemorating World Leprosy Day on the last Sunday of January to create awareness and advocacy for leprosy in Timor-Leste. WHO’s advocacy for leprosy in Timor-Leste involves a comprehensive approach, involving awareness campaigns, community education initiatives, and close collaboration with local health authorities. These efforts aim to dispel misconceptions about leprosy, promote early detection, and encourage affected individuals to seek timely medical care.
By fostering partnerships with local stakeholders, WHO seeks to create a supportive environment for those affected by leprosy, reducing the social stigma associated with the disease. A few examples of high-level advocacy include Timor-Leste becoming a signatory to the important Kigali Declaration on Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) aimed to renew and speed up the commitments to end NTDs. Together with the Director General of Health Service Delivery and the WHO Country Office team, we have also advocated with H.E. Mr. Sasakawa Yohei, WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination, for high-level support from the Sasakwa Health Foundation.
- What commitments, planned activities, or strategies will the WHO implement in 2024 to eliminate leprosy in Timor-Leste?
Timor-Leste’s National Strategic Plan (NSP) for leprosy sets out a comprehensive roadmap for the next four years to address the challenges associated with leprosy in the country. The plan outlines strategic objectives and key interventions aimed at reducing the burden of leprosy, improving early detection, enhancing treatment outcomes, and promoting the social integration of individuals affected by leprosy. The country wishes to accelerate actions for achieving ‘Zero Leprosy’ by 2026 and a roadmap towards this vision is expected to be developed and drawn from NSP in 2024.
- How does the WHO interpret the theme “Beat Leprosy”?
The WHO interprets the theme “Beat Leprosy” as a commitment to addressing the social and cultural biases surrounding leprosy. This theme encapsulates the dual objectives of the day: to eradicate the stigma associated with leprosy and to promote the dignity of people affected by the disease.
The theme of “Beat Leprosy” serves as a powerful reminder of the need to address the social and psychological aspects of leprosy, alongside the medical efforts to eliminate the disease. It calls for a world where leprosy is no longer a source of stigma but rather an opportunity to demonstrate compassion and respect for all individuals.
- Do you have a message for the public on Leprosy Day in line with this year’s theme of “Beat Leprosy”?
On World Leprosy Day, WHO extends a heartfelt message to the public in line with this year’s theme of “Beat leprosy”. The organization encourages everyone to play a role in eradicating the social stigma associated with leprosy by fostering understanding, empathy, and inclusivity. By spreading awareness and challenging misconceptions, individuals can contribute to creating a more compassionate society. WHO emphasizes that ending stigma is not only crucial for the well-being of those affected by leprosy but also essential for building a healthier and more harmonious community.
All responses are to be attributed to Dr Arvind Mathur, WHO Representative to Timor-Leste
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