World Leprosy Day

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About World Leprosy Day

In India, it is observed on 30th January every year, coinciding with the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
The theme of World Leprosy Day 2023 is “Act Now. End Leprosy.

Key facts about Leprosy

It is a chronic infectious disease caused by a type of bacteria, Mycobacterium leprae.
The disease predominantly affects the skin and peripheral nerves if left untreated, the disease may cause progressive and permanent disabilities.
Transmission: The bacteria are transmitted via droplets from the nose and mouth during close and frequent contact with untreated cases.
The majority of annual new case detections are from South-East Asia.
It is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) which still occurs in more than 120 countries, with more than 200 000 new cases reported each year.

The Government launched National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) to make India leprosy free.
It is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme under the umbrella of the National Health Mission (NHM).
It is implemented in all the States/UTs.

World Health Organisation: The Global Leprosy Strategy 2021–2030 “Towards zero leprosy” was developed through a broad consultative process with all major stakeholders during 2019 and 2020.

Q1) What is the objective National Health Mission?

This mission envisages the achievement of universal access to equitable, affordable & quality healthcare services that are accountable and responsive to people’s needs.

Source: World Leprosy Day 2023: Know about this chronic infectious disease, its symptoms, and treatment.