In Tikamgarh, Madhya Pradesh, 63-year-old Sunita's life has been drastically altered by lymphatic filariasis, commonly known as elephantiasis. This debilitating disease, which affects approximately 120 million people globally, has a staggering prevalence in India, accounting for 40% of cases with around 31 million individuals infected [e9e7d185]. Sunita's journey began when she slipped and injured her left leg at the age of 13, leading to her diagnosis of elephantiasis. Initially, her symptoms were mild, but they worsened significantly during her college years, ultimately restricting her mobility and job prospects, particularly as a woman in a conservative society [e9e7d185]. After facing numerous rejections, she married at the age of 32 but has not left her home in five years due to her deteriorating condition [e9e7d185].
The Indian government has recognized the urgency of addressing this neglected tropical disease and launched a mass drug administration (MDA) program in August 2023, aiming to eradicate lymphatic filariasis by 2027 [e9e7d185]. However, the mental health issues faced by patients like Sunita are often overlooked, leaving them feeling abandoned and hopeless. Sunita herself has expressed a desire for death due to her suffering, highlighting the profound impact of this disease not just on physical health but also on mental well-being [e9e7d185]. The plight of women suffering from elephantiasis underscores the need for comprehensive healthcare strategies that address both physical and mental health, as well as social support systems to combat isolation and stigma [e9e7d185].