Writing By Teddy Daniel; Editing By Yusuf Zubairu
Kaduna State Ministry of Health has been called upon to strengthen collaboration between its Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) Unit and the Mental Health Department to address the growing psychosocial burden associated with neglected tropical diseases, particularly lymphatic filariasis.
The call was made by a Programme Officer with Sightsavers, Miss Tabitha Kane, during a two-day media workshop in Kaduna aimed at developing radio messages and talk programmes to raise public awareness and reduce stigma associated with lymphatic filariasis and related conditions such as lymphedema and hydrocele.
Miss Tabitha Kane, explained that the organisation is working with the Kaduna State Ministry of Health to support prevention and treatment services for persons at risk of Non Communicable Diseases and Neglected Tropical Diseases.
According to her, findings from field engagements show a rising number of mental health challenges among people living with Lymphatic Filariasis, largely due to stigma, discrimination and social exclusion.
Miss Kane noted that many affected persons, especially women with limb swelling, face rejection, isolation and reduced participation in social activities, including marriage and community events, leading to depression and other mental health concerns.
She stressed the need for synergy between the NCD Unit, the Mental Health Department and the State Disability Agency to promote inclusion, reduce stigma and create sustained public awareness across Kaduna State.
The Sightsavers Programme Officer emphasized that involving the Ministry of Health’s Health Promotion Unit and the media is key to ensuring that accurate messages reach communities and are sustained beyond the workshop.
Participants expressed optimism that stronger collaboration among relevant government agencies will not only reduce stigma but also improve the quality of life and social inclusion of persons affected by Lymphatic Filariasis in Kaduna State.
Teddy Daniel
