clay and Neglected-Diseases

Podoconiosis is a form of lymphoedema that occurs in tropical highland areas in genetically susceptible individuals who are exposed to irritant volcanic soils. The disease is preventable through consistent use of footwear and attention to foot hygiene; however, in endemic areas there is a strong barefoot tradition, and many cannot afford shoes. Patients with podoconiosis face significant physical disability, psychological comorbidity, reduced quality of life and experience frequent episodes of systemic illness due to acute dermatolymphangioadenitis. This review provides an overview of this important and neglected tropical skin disease and summarizes the latest research findings.

Topics: Africa South of the Sahara; Asia, Southeastern; Central America; Clay; Cost of Illness; Elephantiasis; Genetic Predisposition to Disease; Humans; Mental Health; Neglected Diseases; Shoes; Social Stigma; South America