The World Leprosy Day(WLD) is annually observed across the globe on the last Sunday of January to create awareness about the fact that Leprosy, otherwise known as Hansen’s disease, still exists and to educate people to end leprosy-related stigma and discrimination.
The day also aims to celebrate the people who have experienced leprosy.
World Leprosy Day 2023 falls on 29th January 2023
- World Leprosy Day 2022 was observed on 30th January 2022 and the World Leprosy Day 2024 will be observed on 28th January 2024.
- 29th January 2023 marks the observance of the 70th World Leprosy Day.
The theme for World Leprosy Day 2023 is ‘Act Now: End Leprosy’.
3 key messages of the 2023 theme:
- Elimination is possible- We have the power and tools to stop transmission and defeat this disease.
- Act now – We need the resources and commitment to end leprosy. Prioritize leprosy elimination.
- Reach the unreached – Leprosy is preventable and treatable. Suffering from leprosy is needless.
Background:
World Leprosy Day was established in 1954 by French journalist and activist, Raoul Follereau with 2 goals.
- To advocate for the equal treatment of persons affected by leprosy
- To reeducate the public about leprosy by correcting historical misconceptions surrounding the disease.
Significance:
The year 2023 marks the 150th anniversary of the discovery of M. leprae, the causative agent of leprosy, by the Norwegian physician Gerhard Armauer Hansen on February 28, 1873.
Observance in India:
In India, Leprosy Day is annually observed on 30th January to coincide with the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi, who did much work with persons affected by leprosy.
About Leprosy:
i.Leprosy is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) which still occurs in more than 120 countries, with more than 200 000 new cases reported every year.
ii.The disease mainly affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucous membranes and the eyes.
iii.Leprosy is curable with a combination of antibiotics known as Multi Drug Therapy (MDT). The diseases will lead to serious complications if not treated properly.
iv.Leprosy, which is at least 4,000 years old, is one of the oldest diseases known to humanity.
v.The World Health Organisation(WHO) aims to achieve 120 countries with zero new autochthonous leprosy cases by 2030.
- Since 2012, around 45 countries have reported 0 new leprosy cases.
