Morbidity Management

What is it?

Morbidity Management refers to the treatment or management of an existing disease or illness.

In cases where simple medications cannot fully treat or cure a disease, morbidity management programs help patients to manage the symptoms of their disease through exercise, proper hygiene, elevation and other appropriate actions related to their illness.

As with its mass drug administration programs, IMA strives to involve and empower communities to manage their own morbidity management programs as much as possible through education, training and oversight.

What We Do

Managing the Symptoms of LF in India and Togo

IMA World Health has implemented morbidity management programs, funded by USAID through the World Bank, in both India and Togo to improve the lives of people who suffer from debilitating Lymphatic Filariasis. LF is a neglected tropical disease found predominantly in some of the poorest areas of the world. The most recognizable symptom of LF is elephantiasis, or swelling in the extremities.

Improving Lives through Training and Knowledge

A significant portion of IMA's morbidity management programs involves training patients, family members and community volunteers how to properly wash, exercise and manage the chronic disabilities related to LF. With proper self-care and knowledge, LF patients can experience drastic improvements in quality of life and productivity.

In Togo, IMA collaborates directly with the Ministry of Health's National LF Elimination Program to provide training to patients and volunteers throughout the country. IMA's program in Togo actively monitored over 900 LF cases in 2009.

In India's Orissa State, IMA and its partner CASA (the Church's Auxiliary for Social Action) have trained over 775 volunteers who are managing nearly 15,500 patients in 842 villages.

As a result, thousands of people once alienated from neighbors, suffering greatly and unable to work, have a chance to once again become contributing members of society.

Where We Work