Topic: Issues relating to development and management of Social Sector/Services relating to Health
2) What is lymphatic filariasis? Examine how it affects the poorest population in the Indian society and suggest what needs to be done to overcome the challenges of the same.(250 words)
Why this question:
Vector-borne diseases have gained significance in recent years with several States reporting a surge in malaria, dengue, chikungunya, etc., year after year. While there is awareness about these, not many know that lymphatic filariasis is another preventable vector-borne disease that needs to be tackled effectively to meet the Health Ministry’s target of eliminating it in India by 2020.
Key demand of the question:
The answer must discuss what is lymphatic filariasis, in what way it affects the poorest the most and what needs to be done to overcome this challenge to achieve health for all goal of 2020.
Directive:
Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must look into the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications.
Structure of the answer:
Introduction:
Describe What is lymphatic filariasis?
Body:
The answer must first discuss what is the disease about, its prevalence in the country. Lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis, is a neglected tropical disease.
Infection occurs when filarial parasites are transmitted to humans through mosquitoes. Infection is usually acquired in childhood causing hidden damage to the lymphatic system. The painful and disfiguring visible manifestations of the disease, lymphoedema, elephantiasis and scrotal swelling (hydrocele) occur later in life and can lead to permanent disability. These patients are not only physically disabled, but suffer mental, social and financial losses contributing to stigma and poverty.
Explain the policies and initiatives that are under progress to tackle the menace.
Conclusion:
Conclude with way forward.
