The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition is moving closer to eliminating leprosy by 2030 in country through the continuation of community-based skin health camps with the aim of ensuring early detection, treatment and awareness of the disease.
While noticeable progress has been made since the first skin health camp in Anse La Raye, the Ministry has intensified its efforts to halt the transmission of leprosy in other communities by offering the services in the community of Vieux-Fort and Micoud recently.
Community Dermatologist Dr. Keturah Edwin-Tobias reflected on the commitment of the contact tracing team, dermatology nurses and physicians to identify and detect new cases of leprosy before disabilities are developed. “This camp was created to provide free consultations, education and practical guidance on skin health. Our team, dermatologist, doctors, nurses, pharmacists, community health workers, contact tracing team will all collaborate to identify early signs of skin disorders, offer professional advice and share daily practices for hygiene and sun protection. I would like to highlight the dermatology nurses who have been on this journey with me for over the past 10 years or so, caring for those diagnosed with leprosy and other skin conditions.”
Dermatology Nurse Maria Bonnett says the skin health camp in the south of the island demonstrates the commitment of ensuring that residents have access to early detection, quality dermatology care and education. “As Saint Lucia joins the global movement to eliminate Hansen’s’ disease, we are reminded that this goal is achievable when communities are informed, stigma is reduced and care is accessible. Elimination begins not in policy rooms but in communities through initiatives like this camp through conversation and through the dedication of healthcare professionals and partners working together.”
The grant funding from CeraVe and Gloderm has been instrumental in improving screening and treatment services for leprosy, specifically through the skin health camps held in the various communities around the island.
The Ministry of Health is continuing to work towards eliminating leprosy as a public health concern with the aim of having a future free of the burden of leprosy and its associated stigma.