Context
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, primarily affecting the skin and peripheral nerves. If left untreated, it can lead to progressive and permanent disabilities. In 2019, the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) launched the Elimination Initiative, aimed at accelerating the elimination of more than 30 communicable diseases in the Americas, including leprosy. This initiative aligns with global efforts led by the World Health Organization (WHO), particularly the objectives of its Global Strategy 2021-2030, which seeks to interrupt the transmission of leprosy and eliminate the disease.
This highlights the importance for countries to remain committed to active case detection, timely treatment, and disability prevention, in line with the global elimination goals set by the WHO. For this reason, PAHO, in collaboration with the Lauro de Souza Lima Institute (ILSL), PAHO/WHO Collaborating Center for Leprosy, has organized a webinar aimed at strengthening the capacities of professionals involved in these processes.
Date: Tuesday, October 22, 2024.
Time: 9:00 a.m (Eastern Time)
Target Audience
- Healthcare professionals and key stakeholders from related sectors, all committed to an integrated approach to fighting leprosy in Latin America and the Caribbean.
Webinar Objectives
- Provide comprehensive guidance on leprosy diagnosis and treatment.
- Equip healthcare professionals with the knowledge to handle leprosy reactions.
- Share strategies for monitoring sensory-motor function and preventing disabilities.
Agenda
09:00 a.m. - 09:15 a.m.
Introduction
– Dr. Ana Lucianez and Dr. Nestor Vera
09:15 a.m. - 09:55 a.m.
Leprosy Diagnosis
– Dr. Jaison Antonio Barreto
09:55 a.m. - 10:25 a.m.
Questions and Answers
10:25 a.m. - 11:05 a.m.
Monitoring Sensory-Motor Function and Preventing Disabilities
– Dr. Jorge Antonio de Almeida and Dr. Stela Neme Daré de Almeida
11:05 a.m. - 11:35 a.m.
Questions and Answers
11:35 a.m. - 12:15 p.m.
Leprosy Treatment and Managing Reactions
– Dr. Jaison Antonio Barreto
12:15 p.m. - 12:45 p.m.
Questions and Answers
12:45 p.m. - 01:00 p.m.
Conclusions and Closing Remarks
– Dr. Ana Lucianez and Dr. Néstor Vera