Harar, Ethiopia – The final results and feedback of the PEP4LEP research project, which has been implemented over the past five years in the East Hararghe Zone, were officially disseminated during a high-level meeting held in Harar city.
The study was conducted across 17 health facilities and selected communities in the Jarso, Midega, and Girawa districts. This collaborative effort involved the Ministry of Health’s National TB and Leprosy Control Program, the Armauer Hansen Research Institute (AHRI), the German Leprosy and TB Relief Association (GLRA-Ethiopia), the Oromia Health Bureau, the East Hararghe Zone Health Office, and local district health offices.
Objective of the Study The primary goal of the PEP4LEP project was to evaluate the most effective methods for distributing Single Dose Rifampicin (SDR)—a World Health Organization (WHO)-approved preventive treatment—to individuals at high risk of leprosy. The study specifically compared two approaches:
- Skin Camps: Conducting integrated community-based skin screening campaigns.
- Health Center-Based Intervention: Focusing on leprosy patients and their immediate family contacts at health facilities.
Key Achievements and Findings
The study’s data highlights a significant breakthrough in community health engagement and disease detection within the region. Over the project’s duration, 11,715 individuals underwent comprehensive screenings conducted by dermatologists and trained health professionals.
The clinical impact of these interventions includes:
- Preventative Care: A total of 10,510 participants successfully received the World Health Organization-approved preventive medication.
- Disease Detection: Screening efforts identified 99 new cases of leprosy, all of whom were promptly enrolled in life-changing treatment programs.
- Broader Health Benefits: Beyond leprosy, more than 4,126 individuals were diagnosed with various other skin conditions and provided with necessary medical care.
The findings demonstrate that integrated skin screening campaigns have achieved high levels of community trust and acceptance, proving to be an effective model for reaching underserved populations
The meeting was attended by Ato Taye Letta, Head of the National TB, Leprosy, and Other Lung Disease Desk at the Ministry of Health; Ato Kolato Gemeda, Head of the TB, Leprosy, and Other Lung Disease Desk at the Oromia Health Bureau; as well as officials and experts representing the East Hararghe Zone and the three districts (Woredas).
The officials expressed their appreciation for the project’s significant contributions in mobilizing the community, building the capacity of health professionals, identifying previously undiagnosed cases, and expanding the accessibility of preventive medication (SDR-PEP). Furthermore, recommendations and strategic directives were issued to ensure the sustainability of the project’s achievements following its completion.
This research was made possible through the financial support of EDCTP 2, Global EDCTP 3, and the European Union (EU).
