Majority infected due to vitamin deficiency; cases of leprosy also found
Dermatologists conduct skin disease camps for the tribals.
KOZHIKODE: The Attapadi tribes, who have been suffering from chronic malnutrition, are infected with a variety of skin diseases.
Dermatologists, who have conducted skin disease camps at Attapadi, told DC that scabies and skin pigmentation due to vitamin deficiency were rampant among the tribes.
There were even cases of leprosy which have been referred for continuous treatment. Sources said that the medical intervention in these hamlets was inadequate.
“Scabies is spreading due to lack of hygiene. Children suffer from pyoderma that could lead to renal problems if not treated properly. Most of them have skin diseases due to vitamin deficiency. We also found suspected cases of leprosy,” Dr. Renuka, who participated in the camps organised by the Malabar Dermatology Camp, said. It has so far conducted five skin diseases camps for the tribes.
“There are some medics who are trying to change their lifestyle. However, the medical intervention is inadequate. We also should sensitise the tribal people regarding personal hygiene,” Dr. Renuka said.
Sources said the government agencies were not taking any steps to improve the conditions of the tribal people.
They allege that the government had stopped its intervention with the nutritious meal programme, which itself is erratic in many areas.
Pregnant woman suffer from malnutrition and the tribes have no easy access to quality health care, they said.
( Source : deccan chronicle )
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