78th WHA Individual Statements
Chair, distinguished delegates,
ILEP is a federation of international NGOs involved in leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases affecting the skin. As such we are familiar not only with the challenges around diagnosis, treatment and care, but also the consequences faced by many people suffering from skin diseases, in terms of pain, disability, social exclusion and discrimination. Our experience is that diseases of the skin are often neglected, misunderstood and under-prioritized, especially in low and middle-income countries. This needs to change.
Accordingly, we warmly support the proposed resolution on Skin Diseases as a Global Health Priority. We endorse the set of measures proposed for member states, the international community and WHO to address the neglect, and to dedicate resources to prioritize services for the people who experience skin diseases and their consequences.
We urge all Member States to adopt the resolution, develop appropriate action plans and strategies, and resource and implement them.
Thank you.