Abstract
Podoconiosis or “endemic non-filarial elephantiasis” is a tropical disease caused by prolonged exposure of bare feet to irritant alkaline clay soils of volcanic origin [1]. The name of the disease is derived from the Greek words for foot: podos, and dust: konos. Small mineral particles from irritant soils penetrate the skin and provoke an inflammatory response leading to fibrosis and blockage of lymphatic vessels, causing lymphoedema [2]. Patients suffer from disabling physical effects, but also stigma [1]. The disease can simply be prevented by avoiding contact with irritant soils (wearing shoes) but this is still an unaffordable “luxury” for many people. Podoconiosis is unique because it is a completely preventable non-communicable tropical disease [1]. In the past few years, podoconiosis has received increased advocacy and is now step by step appearing on the agenda of medical researchers as well as politicians. [...]
Highlights
Podoconiosis or ―endemic non-filarial elephantiasis‖ is a tropical disease caused by prolonged exposure of bare feet to irritant alkaline clay soils of volcanic origin [1]
In the past few years, podoconiosis has received increased advocacy and is step by step appearing on the agenda of medical researchers as well as politicians
Atlas can be a powerful tool to assist public-health professionals in better understanding the epidemiological complexities of podoconiosis and is highly relevant for the development of spatial mapping of podoconiosis by medical researchers
Summary
Podoconiosis or ―endemic non-filarial elephantiasis‖ is a tropical disease caused by prolonged exposure of bare feet to irritant alkaline clay soils of volcanic origin [1]. The disease can be prevented by avoiding contact with irritant soils (wearing shoes) but this is still an unaffordable ―luxury‖ for many people. Podoconiosis is unique because it is a completely preventable non-communicable tropical disease [1].
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
More From: International journal of environmental research and public health
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.