An Initiative to Find Innovative Interventions for the Comprehensive Treatment of NTDs
- Liberia Country
- 3.791.690 € Investment
- 2023-24 Length
The Challenge
In addition to being one of the 10 main causes of disability globally, skin Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs) can stigmatise those who suffer from them and can lead, in turn, to social exclusion and psychological distress.
To treat these diseases, effective treatment must take into consideration ways to tackle the challenges that go beyond just the physical consequences. This research project will therefore look at how best to apply a comprehensive approach to managing cases of NTDs in Liberia.
The solution
To achieve this goal, a series of actions will be carried out in collaboration with the Liberian Ministry of Health and the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM). The most significant are:
- Pinpointing effective, affordable and sustainable strategies for screening, referral, treatment and support for people living with skin NTDs.
- Designing and evaluating innovative interventions that take into account the views and priorities of both the people affected as well as health workers.
- Improving the quality and equity of the way interventions are implemented so that all identified individuals can access the care, treatment and support they need in an effective and affordable way.
Impact
This project will make it possible to develop, evaluate and adapt interventions to treat NTDs in a comprehensive and integrated way.
It will also encourage health workers and people affected by NTDs to take part in the design of the interventions.
These lessons learnt in Liberia can also be applied to other settings in the region, thereby contributing to a regional exchange of scientific knowledge. Finally, the findings could also be adopted into public health policies in Liberia.
Related projects
See other projects where we fight Neglected Tropical Diseases
A clinical trial to reduce the treatment time for the Buruli ulcer by half
After decades combatting the Buruli ulcer, which affects thousands of people in over 33 countries, we are still unaware of its exact mode of transmission. We know it is related to environments with stagnant and unsafe water.
Strengthening the African network of laboratories for Buruli ulcer research
There are currently no unified protocols for detecting Buruli ulcer. Although the WHO sets guidelines for the control of NTDs, many laboratories in Africa do not have standardised protocols for sample collection and subsequent screening and diagnosis of these diseases.
Simultaneous diagnosis of five skin-related neglected tropical diseases (skin NTDs)
Through this initiative, we are contributing to strengthening public health systems, from small aid stations in the remotest villages to health centres in reference-point towns.
A New Early Detection System for Buruli Ulcer
This will increase early detection, reducing the number of severe cases of the disease, and in turn will lower expenses for patients and their families as there will be fewer severe cases requiring intensive care.
Better Mental Health for People with NTDs in Nigeria as a Result of Integrated Care
This initiative will support the Nigerian government and other civil society organisations to develop and pilot-test a comprehensive intervention to integrate mental health and NTDs.
Support for Leprosy Research Teams Via the Leprosy Research Initiative (LRI)
These lessons learnt in Liberia can also be applied to other settings in the region, thereby contributing to a regional exchange of scientific knowledge. Finally, the findings could also be adopted into public health policies in Liberia.
Creating Scientific Research Opportunities on NTDs for Young Professionals from Countries Where these Diseases Are Endemic
Encouraging young researchers in countries where skin NTDs are endemic will contribute to the development of a new generation of scientists who will be better able to understand and manage the challenges of these diseases.
Reducing Stigma and Disabilities
Via this research project we seek to guarantee the Right to Health of people with disabilities, with a special focus on those with NTDs in Côte d’Ivoire and Benin.
A New Clinical Study to Improve the Treatment of Leprosy and Prevent its Harmful Side Effects
Via this study, we will enhance capacity-building, strengthen active integrated case detection, as well as enable early detection and accurate diagnoses.
