Handigodu disease

Tags: State News

Handigodu disease

Why in the news?

• Health and family welfare minister of Karnataka,Dinesh Gundu Rao directed the health department officials to undertake a scientific study of Handigodu disease and present a detailed report on its control measures.

About  Handigodu disease:

•  Handigodu disease, a rare genetic condition affecting the nervous system, leads to muscle weakness, joint deformities, and skeletal abnormalities. 
• The condition was initially discovered in 1978 in Handigodu village, Sagar taluk, Shivamogga district. 
• Statistical data indicates that between 1978 and 1985, approximately 205 cases were documented, with nearly 100 fatalities reported.
• The minister issued strict directives against unauthorised practitioners offering allopathic treatments, ordering the immediate closure of their clinics. 
• He additionally mandated free treatment and ambulance services at govt healthcare facilities. 
• New ambulances have been provided to340 health centres in the state. Special physiotherapy centres will be opened in all district hospitals in the state.