Let's chase the stigma on leprosy: World Leprosy Day 2023

 
World Leprosy Day: What You Need to Know

Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic, contagious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae. The disease affects the skin and the peripheral nerves and can lead to disfigurement and disability. Each year, on the last Sunday of January, World Leprosy Day is celebrated to raise awareness about the disease and the stigma that still surrounds it.

What is Leprosy?

Leprosy is a chronic bacterial infection caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium leprae. It is a contagious disease that mainly affects the skin, peripheral nerves, and upper respiratory tract. The bacterium is spread through contact with nasal secretions of an infected person, and it is estimated that 95% of people are naturally immune to the infection.

The disease is characterised by skin lesions, nerve damage, and disability. In severe cases, leprosy can cause permanent disability or disfigurement. However, with early diagnosis and treatment, it can be cured and the disability and disfigurement prevented.

Causes and Symptoms of Leprosy

The primary cause of leprosy is the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It is spread through contact with the nasal secretions of an infected person. The bacteria are not airborne and can only be spread through direct contact.

The symptoms of leprosy vary depending on the type of leprosy. The most common symptoms are skin lesions, sores, and/or rashes. Other symptoms include muscle weakness, numbness, and tingling in the extremities. In some cases, the disease can cause deformities, such as claw-like fingers, paralysis, and blindness.

Treatment and Prevention of Leprosy

Leprosy can be successfully treated with antibiotics. The drugs used to treat leprosy are dapsone, rifampicin, and clofazimine. Treatment usually takes 6-12 months and is usually given in combination.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends the use of preventative measures such as early diagnosis, treatment, and contact tracing to reduce the spread of leprosy.

Discrimination, Stigma, and Social Isolation

Despite the fact that leprosy can be cured, there is still a great deal of stigma and discrimination attached to the disease. People with leprosy often face social isolation and exclusion, and are often marginalised and treated as outcasts.

The discrimination and stigma associated with leprosy can be addressed by raising awareness about the disease, providing accurate information about the cause and treatment of leprosy, and by challenging the myths and misunderstandings associated with the disease.

Conclusion

Leprosy is a chronic, contagious disease caused by the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae. It is characterised by skin lesions, nerve damage, and disability. Treatment is available, and leprosy can be cured if it is diagnosed and treated early. However, people with leprosy still face discrimination and stigma and are often ostracised and marginalised. World Leprosy Day is an important opportunity to raise awareness about leprosy and challenge the myths and misunderstandings associated with the disease.

Sources:

1. World Health Organization. (2020). Leprosy. https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/leprosy

2. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2019). Leprosy (Hansen's Disease). https://www.cdc.gov/leprosy/index.html

3. World Health Organization. (2020). World Leprosy Day. https://www.who.int/campaigns/world-leprosy-day/2020/en/