Page 5 - Printing FINAL copy Swsathya 13 Aug

The malicious intent of the perpetrator may be fuelled by jealousy, insecurity, power
imbalance, revenge or mental health issues, while the acid attack victim with prior normal
mental health suddenly faces immense physical and mental health issues following the
acid attack. Addressing the issues involving the perpetrator –justice, rehabilitation,
restriction of acid access involve complex legal problems that need addressing by
governments, legislatures and enforcement authorities.

Restoring the physical and mental health of the victim is the priority. Timely,
appropriate first aid response and early access to specialist help is essential. The role
of plastic and reconstructive surgery, in helping acid attack victims is evidenced in Prof.
Gupta’s article. However not many acid attack victims have the luxury of access to quality
care to address physical and mental effects of the acid attack.

Physical, mental and social rehabilitation of acid attack victims will need a
comprehensive approach in addition to covering the financial cost of restoration of
physical health, appearance, function and self-esteem. Charities and third sector can play
a crucial role in providing holistic care of acid attack victims worldwide.
Recent Bollywood movie ‘Chhapaak’ addresses the complex issue of consequences
of acid attack. Swasthya is planning to launch a charity that will aim to promote for a
comprehensive holistic care for acid attack victims.

It is greatly satisfying to see the readership of Swasthya expand beyond our
expectations and reaching out to diverse regions of the country and professionals
in various specialties. Noticeably, Swasthya has also made its mark in India, Nepal,
Bangladesh and Sri Lanka. We also welcome a number experts to join our Advisory
Council and support from leaders such as Prof Russell D’Souza, President of International
Institute of Organizational Psychological Medicine and Prof. A B M Abdullah, academician
and physician of the Hon Prime Minster of the Republic of Bangladesh.

Swasthya is grateful to Mr C.R Chandrasekar and Dr Sridhar Kalyanasundaram for
accepting to be the core part of the editorial team. In addition, we are also privileged to
have contribution by Dr Santosh Mudholkar as the Guest Editor for the special mental
health supplement. q

Buddhdev Pandya MBE
Managing Editor and Team members

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to Contents Page Volume:1 I Issue:2 I AUGUST 2020