DAVAO CITY (PIA) – The Southern Philippines Medical Center (SPMC) is intensifying efforts to raise awareness about leprosy, aiming to combat stigma and discrimination against those affected by the disease during the World Leprosy Day
Senior Resident of the Department of Dermatology -SPMC Dr. Donna May Sarenas, emphasized that while leprosy is contagious, it is not easily transmissible. She reassured the public that leprosy is curable, with free medication available for patients.
“Ang importante sa karong panahona, curable na siya, ang tambal libre, og importante lang ma-diagnose ang mga pasyente og sayo, ma-treat sila og tama, og kita tanan sa society dili na sila i-discriminate.” Dr. Sarenas said.
She stressed the need for early diagnosis and proper treatment, noting that 95% of the population is naturally immune to leprosy. However, she pointed out that stigma and discrimination remain the greatest challenges for patients, as societal stigma and discrimination often lead to their isolation.
Meanwhile, Dr. Sarenas recognized the importance of media as plays an important role in educating and informing the public to combat stigma and ensure that patients are treated with dignity.
“Sa inyo, mga media: mag-disseminate og tama nga information. And, to eliminate, ang goal is to eliminate discrimination and stigma. Ang goal nato is ma-improve ang life sa mga tao nga naay leprosy.” Dr. Sarenas said.
(To the media to disseminate the right information, the goal is to eliminate discrimination and stigma our goal is to improve the lives of people with leprosy.)
SPMC continues to advocate for public education and early intervention to ensure that leprosy patients receive the care they need while fostering a more inclusive and compassionate society. (REC / PIA XI)
