Curated by: Nibandh Vinod
Last update: January 30, 2024, 06:15 IST
World Leprosy Eradication Day raises awareness about leprosy in India. (Image: Shutterstock)
In India, World Leprosy Eradication Day is celebrated on January 30 every year, coinciding with the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi.
WORLD LEPROSY ERADICATION DAY 2024: Leprosy, also known as Hansen's disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by the slow-growing bacteria Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves, causing skin lesions, nerve damage, and possible disabilities if untreated. While not very contagious, prolonged close contact with someone with untreated leprosy can transmit the bacteria.
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The last Sunday of January of each year is celebrated as World Leprosy Day. This year it was celebrated on January 28. The theme for 2024 was “Overcoming Leprosy.” The goal is to raise awareness about the disease, fight stigma and promote the dignity of people affected by leprosy.
WORLD LEPROSY ERADICATION DAY 2024 HISTORY
In India, World Leprosy Eradication Day is celebrated on January 30 every year, coinciding with the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi. Gandhi was actively involved in defending the rights of people affected by leprosy and worked for their welfare. He established leper colonies, provided medical care and education, and fought the stigma associated with the disease. Celebrating Leprosy Day on this date serves as a reminder of his dedication and helps continue his efforts.
WORLD LEPROSY ERADICATION DAY 2024 MEANING
The day raises awareness about leprosy in India, encourages early diagnosis and treatment, and combats stigma.
EARLY SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS
SKIN INJURIES
- Irregular, lighter or reddish-brown discoloration of the skin.
- Loss of sensation in the affected area.
- The lesions can be flat or raised and can appear anywhere on the body.
- Numbness and tingling in hands and feet:
- This can cause difficulty grasping objects or feeling the ground when walking.
MUSCULAR WEAKNESS
It can affect the hands, feet, and face, causing difficulty performing daily tasks.
ENLARGED LYMPH NODES
It can occur near the groin, armpits, or elbows.
DIAGNOSIS
- SKIN BIOPSYA small sample of skin tissue is taken and examined for the presence of leprosy bacteria.
- CUT SKIN BORDERA skin scraping from the earlobe is examined under a microscope for bacteria.
- NERVE FUNCTION TESTSThese tests evaluate nerve damage by measuring electrical conductivity in the hands and feet.
Leprosy can be cured with multi-drug therapy (MDT) provided by health professionals. Early diagnosis and treatment prevent nerve damage and disability. The stigma surrounding leprosy can be harmful and prevent people from seeking help.
