@article{102714,
  keywords = {Disabilities, Caregivers, Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), Schools, Finances, Buruli ulcer},
  author = {Aké J and Koh E and Issiaka T and Nadège BAN and Maxime LB and Phillip M and Cécille KA and Yotsu R},
  editor = {Nascimento AL},
  title = {People-centered strategies to mobilize people living with disabilities due to Neglected Tropical Diseases (PD-NTDs) to influence policy and programs: A mixed-methods study in Côte d’Ivoire},
  abstract = {<p><strong>Introduction</strong></p>

<p>Neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) are a priority in the public health agenda for Côte d’Ivoire, with persons living with disabilities due to NTDs (PD-NTDs) experiencing many challenges in their daily lives. Current policies do not sufficiently support PD-NTDs, thereby highlighting the need to identify opportunities for policy improvement.</p>

<p><strong>Methods</strong></p>

<p>This study was carried out in two phases: first to identify the current needs (formative phase) and then to develop a pilot strategy (implementation phase). In the formative phase, pertinent current legislation was reviewed. Then, interviews of PD-NTDs and their caregivers were conducted and analyzed quantitatively. Thematic analysis of focus groups with key community stakeholders was also completed. In the implementation phase, a pilot strategy was developed to address the identified issues.</p>

<p><strong>Results</strong></p>

<p>172 PD-NTDs and their caregivers were surveyed through this study. 99% of PD-NTDs expressed a need for rehabilitation, healthcare and psychosocial support. More than 80% endorsed the need for healthcare services and free medications, 92% expressed the need for educational services, and 83% reported economic difficulties. Furthermore, 30% of PD-NTDs reported limited awareness of specialized care services available in the community, 25% endorsed limited knowledge of current legislation that protects the rights of people living with disabilities, and 38% faced significant stigma and discrimination within the past 12 months. Fifty-six interviews with key informants further echoed these gaps. A pilot strategy was developed with four pillars to (1) increase community advocacy, (2) combat stigma, (3) promote mutual support among PD-NTDs, and (4) improve the sustainability of the effort. Forty-one out of 49 activities were completed.</p>

<p><strong>Discussion</strong></p>

<p>This project represents a comprehensive effort to identify policy opportunities to effectively support PD-NTDs. This approach may be used by other organizations that plan to develop initiatives to target the needs of PD-NTDs in their local communities.</p>
},
  year = {2025},
  journal = {PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases},
  volume = {19},
  pages = {1-16},
  publisher = {Public Library of Science (PLoS)},
  issn = {1935-2735},
  url = {https://journals.plos.org/plosntds/article/file?id=10.1371/journal.pntd.0013485&type=printable},
  doi = {10.1371/journal.pntd.0013485},
  language = {ENG},
}