Podoconiosis as drawings 2023
Podoconiosis or ‘podo’ for short, is a little-known tropical disease that has been found over three continents in regions of Africa, Central America and India. It manifests itself as massive swelling of the feet, leading to profound lower leg disfigurement and consequent physical disability.
The affected countries share both volcanic history and shoe poverty.
Podo is caused by long term exposure to volcanic soils and is preventable by shoe wearing.
The drawings explore the gradual swelling to the lower libs that is caused by the destruction of the lymphatic system, critical for the transportation of body fluids.
Please note that the information below might be distressing.
The early symptoms of podoconiosis are subtle, starting with widening of the foot, itching, a burning sensation and sometimes a mild fever. Skin may harden, crack or develop a sandpaper like, mossy appearance.
After time, the swelling gets worse, and will not go away with a night rest. The foot or leg may ooze, attract flies, and get infected. With time the affected leg balloons, which may lead to skin folds around the ankle.
Toes become either soft and squashy (water-bag like) or thick, and leathery with multiple hard skin nodules. The increasing size and weight of the limb limits movement. The chronic (and non-reversible) stage is associated with fusion of toes and ankle joints.
The gradual swelling is caused by the destruction of the lymphatic system, critical for the transportation of body fluids.
Accompanying podo are social stigma and prejudice. People are marginalised and excluded, for example from marrying or eating together. The emotional consequences of persons affected by podo include depression, mental stress or suicidal thoughts.