The Fondation Follereau is celebrating 50 years of fighting against leprosy and as such is reflecting upon its efforts since it was created in 1966.
As well as celebrating the 64th World Leprosy Day on Sunday 29 January 2017, Fondation Follereau is reflecting on its efforts in the fight against leprosy and other widespread diseases in tropical regions over the past 50 years.
Over the years, the foundation’s main aim has been to assure both the medical care for people suffering from leprosy and to spread awareness among communities to fight against exclusion. In its 50 years of existence, it has been able to cure over 600,000 people with leprosy, which is around the same size as the population of Luxembourg. In addition, each year, there are 200,000 new cases of leprosy, 10% of which are children.
The foundation is following the World Health Organisation’s 2016-2020 strategy aims which are the coordination and partnership between actors, the eradication of leprosy and its complications, and the fight against discrimination and the promotion of inclusion.
As well as early detection and treatment for leprosy, the Fondation Follereau is engaged in the fight against other tropical diseases such as the Buruli ulcer, which mainly affects children and adolescents. If not treated, this bacterial illness can lead to serious skin ulcers and sometimes even reaches the bones.
With its projects in Togo, Benin, Madagascar and Guinea, the Fondation Follereau is collaborating with local partner organisations to ensure access to adequate medical care for those suffering form leprosy and the Buruli ulcer. Moreover, its projects offer activities to reintegrate patients into society and access to education for the youngest among them. Awareness campaigns in the communities also aim to actively promote early detection and the fight against prejudices.
On the occasion of the 64th World Leprosy Day on 29 January 2017, the foundation plans to continue its efforts and fight for a fairer world.
Photo by Fondation Follereau/Thierry Winn
