Malkangiri, Feb 19: Lymphoedema is a chronic inflammatory condition affecting the lymphatic system, a little-discussed but crucial part of the immune system, which circulates infection-fighting lymph fluid around the body. When the system is impaired – as a result either of a genetic abnormality, or damage caused by another condition – that fluid builds up and causes persistent swelling, typically in the limbs. So-called “primary” lymphoedema, present from birth, is rare. But as many as 50% of cancer patients who have lymph nodes removed during treatment (often those with breast, prostate or gynaecological cancers, or melanoma) may develop secondary lymphoedema.
In a bid to spread awareness regarding the disease, the Malkangiri conducted an awareness video show at Balimela Hospital in presence of ADPHO(VBD), VBD Consultant, VBDTS and Medical Officer of Balimela Hospital.
Meanwhile, Morbidity Management Disabilities Prevention (MMDP) kit were also distributed among the Lymphoedema patients alongwith demonstration of Morbidity management processes.
Taking to Twitter, the official Twitter handle of Malkangiri Collector and DM Wrote: Supply of Morbidity Management Disabilities Prevention (MMDP) kit to lymphoedema cases with demonstration of Morbidity management process, Awareness video show at Balimela Hospital in presence of ADPHO (VBD),VBD Consultant, VBDTS & Medical Officer Balimela. @HFWOdisha@nhmodisha.
Supply of Morbidity Management Disabilities Prevention (MMDP) kit to lymphoedema cases with demonstration of Morbidity management process, Awareness video show at Balimela Hospital in presence of ADPHO (VBD),VBD Consultant, VBDTS & Medical Officer Balimela. @HFWOdisha @nhmodisha pic.twitter.com/is1vZ7fuSP
— Collector & DM, Malkangiri (@dm_malkangiri) February 18, 2022
According to World Health Organisation (WHO), stopping the spread of infection through preventive chemotherapy will prevent new cases of disease. However, to achieve the aims of the second component as outlined in the 2011 morbidity management and disability prevention (MMDP) position statement, a minimum package of care for every person with lymphedema, elephantiasis or hydrocele must be available in all areas of known patients where LF is endemic.
Notably, an estimated 40 million people worldwide suffer from clinically significant manifestations of the lymphatic filariasis (LF), predominately lymphedema, elephantiasis and hydrocele. These conditions can lead to impairments, reduced economic productivity, and discrimination.
