01222nas a2200145 4500000000100000008004100001260001200042653001700054653001300071100002400084245008800108856008500196300000800281520078700289 2023 d c10/202310apodoconiosis10aEthiopia1 aMalaria Consortium 00aFrom steps to solutions: Advancing podoconiosis prevention and control in Ethiopia uhttps://www.malariaconsortium.org/media-download-file/202310310344/happyfeet.pdf a1-43 a

• Podoconiosis is preventable with access to well-fitting footwear. Advocating for the inclusion of shoes in the national water, sanitation and hygiene strategy would improve access to shoes, encourage uptake of shoe wearing and foot hygiene practices, and promote prevention.

• Wearing shoes from an early age prevents podoconiosis and related lymphoedema. Embedding multistakeholder podoconiosis prevention packages in schools will improve access to shoes, early behaviour change and service uptake, and raising awareness.

• Women are disproportionately affected by podoconiosis and require tailored services that respond to their needs. As caregivers in their households, they can help to sustain positive behaviour change among their families.