This study conducted to describe the morbidity management practices, knowledge, disability
and impact of filarial lymphoedema in patients in the Colombo district before and after the
introduction of a limb-care regime based on the CHBC programme and to ascertain the
efficacy of this limb-care regime. Comprise three components viz the pre- interventional
study, implementation of interventions and the post- interventional study was carried out on
lymphoedema patients attending two filariasis clinics in the Colombo district. interviewer
administered questionnaire was administered to 413 patients to ascertain information
regarding limb- care practices, acute ADL attacks, knowledge and disability/ impact.Oneyear limb-care regime based on the CHBC, had a beneficial effect on patients by reducing
acute ADL attacks, converting the grades of lymphoedema to lower grades and reducing
physical and psychosocial disability. Further follow up of these patients should be done to
ascertain the sustainability of this limb-care regime on a longer term. The CHBC
programme should be implemented on a formal basis in the Colombo district without delay.
Furthermore, psychosocial consequences of lymphoedema should also be targeted.
