Improving gender-inclusive access to treatments for neglected diseases in low- and middle-income countries

 

New treatments for chagas disease and leishmaniasis that are suitable for all populations are urgently needed, in particular for the often-forgotten women of child-bearing age, including pregnant and lactating women. Existing treatments are potentially dangerous to foetuses, so women are obliged to use contraception during treatment, which can represent an important access and equity barrier for them. This project explores levels of acceptability and potential barriers to contraceptive use among communities affected by chagas and leishmaniasis diseases.

This project’s general objective is to identify strategies to ensure the development of inclusive treatment solutions for women affected by neglected diseases. The specific objectives of the project are: to assess the acceptability of contraceptive use when medically indicated for the treatment of chagas disease and leishmaniasis in endemic regions in Latin America and Africa; to understand perspectives, facilitators and barriers to contraceptive use in communities impacted by the diseases; and to work with selected communities to develop a list of recommendations for contraceptive use guidance during treatment and clinical trials for chagas disease and leishmaniasis.

The project will draw on the findings to guide the development and adoption of gender-inclusive approaches in medical countermeasures to vector-borne diseases. The evidence generated through multi-stakeholder engagement throughout the project is also expected to be used to support decision-making that prioritizes the needs and voices of women of childbearing age in the refinement of existing treatment options, and in the development of new drugs and treatments for these diseases or similar conditions.