Poverty and socio-economic consequences of Buruli ulcer (Mycobacterium ulcerans) in the Ga West District of Ghana

Abstract

The paper examines Buruli ulcer and its poverty and socio-economic ramifications in the Ga West District of Ghana. Although the disease has received public health attention, its impact on individuals, families and communities has not been given critical attention. The study found Buruli ulcer to be associated with deprived areas where poor socio-economic and infrastructural conditions are manifested in the lack of employable skills and low incomes. Also associated with the disease are those activities that interfere with the environment and make it a habitat for disease causing organisms. The study recommends good environmental management, improved water sources, early detection and treatment, and education, as the best measures to reduce morbidity and costs in the management of the disease.

Keywords:

• Buruli ulcer
• poverty
• socio-economic consequences

Acknowledgements

This study was made possible by the sponsorship of the Norwegian Council of Universities Committee for Development Research and Education (NUFU). We acknowledge the cooperation of the Director and staff of the Ga West District Health Directorate, the local office of the World Vision International, and the Community Diseases Surveillance Volunteers of the Ga West District.

Notes

1. Mensah-Quainoo, E. 1997. Determinants of Buruli ulcer disease in the Ga District. Unpublished project report submitted to the School of Public Health, University of Ghana, Legon.

2. UN-WHO (United Nations–World Health Organization); UNAIDS (Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS); UNDP (United Nations Development Programme); the EU (European Union).

3. UN-WHO. 1998. The Yamoussoukro Declaration on Buruli ulcer. http://www.who.int/buruli/yamoussoukro_declaration/en/index.html (accessed May 2005).

4. GWDA (Ga West District Assembly). 2004. Poverty profile, maps and pro-poor programmes. Amasaman, District Poverty Profiling Team.