Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is one of the oldest and most debilitating neglected tropical diseases. An estimated 120 million people in 81 countries are infected currently. Approximately 40 million people suffer from the stigmatizing and disabling clinical manifestations of the disease, including 15 million who have lymphoedema (elephantiasis) and 25 million men who have urogenital swelling, principally scrotal hydrocele. Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a serious public health problem in India. The disease is prevalent in rural and urban areas of 256 districts of 16 states and 5 union territories.

Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) and leprosy are the most common disabling infectious diseases. LF is a vector-borne disease in the NTD spectrum whereas leprosy is a bacterial disease. The disabling effects of LF and leprosy can be addressed through morbidity management, self-care practices, physiotherapy, surgeries and supportive medications. GLRA India has taken up a multi-year project along with WASH as a cross-cutting theme in Sitapur (Uttar Pradesh), Kaimur (Bihar) and Malda (West Bengal) through field-based interventions, promoting home-based self-care, sensitisation of healthcare workers for disability prevention and morbidity management beside involving PRIs for social security linkages. The project is funded by the Federal Ministry of Economic Corporation and Development, Germany and the Lions Germany.