It is easy to think of leprosy as a disease of the past. Actually, it is a neglected tropical disease (NTD). Indeed, leprosy which still occurs in more than 120 countries. That is to say, the majority of the world’s nations! World Leprosy Day 2025 will be on the last Sunday of January. This year, that will be on the 26th. In India, it is observed on 30 January every year. This is in order for it to coincide with the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. The World Health Organisation spearheads World Leprosy Day.

More than 200,000 new cases of leprosy are reported every year. The aim of observing World Leprosy Day is to fight the stigma attached to the disease. This is done by making affected communities aware that it is a disease spread by a type of bacteria. And, more important, World Leprosy Day highlights that the disease can be easily cured.

What Causes Leprosy?

Leprosy, also known as Hansen disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It is spread by droplets in the breath of people with untreated cases. This spread is in the event of close and frequent contact. And, infection can occur at any stage of life. So, anyone can become infected by leprosy.

What are the Symptoms of Leprosy?

Leprosy is a chronic disease, which can take years, or even decades (up to 20 years) to become symptomatic. It is diagnosed by finding at least one of the following signs:

(1) The definite loss of sensation in a pale (hypopigmented) or reddish skin patch.

(2) A thickened or enlarged peripheral nerve. This would be associated with loss of sensation and/or weakness of the muscles supplied by that nerve.

(3) The presence of acid-fast bacilli in a slit-skin smear.

How is Leprosy Treated?

Early diagnosis and complete treatment with multidrug therapy (MDT) remain key for treating leprosy. Multidrug therapy for leprosy uses two antibiotics and a third medication. Treatment may last 6 months or 12 months. The length of time which the treatment regime lasts depends on the severity of the infection.

Where do Most Leprosy Cases Occur?

India, Brasil, and Indonesia are hotspots for new cases (map shows cases reported in 2022)