Why we are needed
The ancient disease of poverty, leprosy, spreads particularly in an environment where people live in cramped conditions, are poorly nourished, live in poverty and have no access to health care. In addition, those affected often conceal their infection, as leprosy is associated with strong stigmatization and exclusion. And this has serious consequences: If left untreated, it leads to chronic ulcers and permanent disabilities. In the district of Durg, the neglected tropical disease therefore finds a fertile breeding ground and is widespread. Although the Indian government has been working for decades to eradicate leprosy, too many women, children and people living in poverty in Durg still fall through the cracks of the system.
«New beginning»
As is usual for FAIRMED, this project was also named by the local people and the name shows what they want most. Because “Aagaaz” means “new beginning” and is intended to give people affected by leprosy a fresh start to a better life.
How we work
FAIRMED takes far-reaching measures to stop the spread of leprosy and break the chains of infection (e.g. through contact tracing). Through our work, we provide the staff in the facilities with the necessary medical expertise on the subject of leprosy. As a result, thousands of local people with leprosy and leprosy-related disabilities receive professional treatment. We also help to ensure that people in the project are examined for early signs of the disease and educate them on how to recognize the first signs of leprosy themselves. We use awareness-raising measures to combat the widespread stigmatization.
Would you like to learn more about how we work?
Do you have questions on the project?
If so, Sybille Imhof, our project manager for India, will be happy to help. You can reach her by e-mail at info@fairmed.ch.
Your donation helps
Every donation, regardless of its amount, is valuable and is used by us worldwide to improve the health of the poorest.
