World Leprosy Day 2022

World Leprosy Day is observed internationally every year on the last Sunday of January to increase the public awareness of leprosy or Hansen’s Disease. This date was chosen by French humanitarian Raoul Follereau as a tribute to the life of Mahatma Gandhi who had compassion for people afflicted with leprosy. The day began on 1954. World Leprosy Day raises awareness of a disease that many people believe to be extinct. Today it is not just the disease that is forgotten, but the people too.

Leprosy is one of the oldest recorded diseases in the world. It is an infectious chronic disease that targets the nervous system, especially the nerves in the cooler parts of the body: the hands, feet, and face. Pope Francis has spoken in support of the observation. Everyday nearly 600 more people are diagnosed with and start treatment for leprosy. In 2014, 213 899 people were diagnosed and it is estimated that millions more go undiagnosed.

World Leprosy Day 2022 guest talk organized by Community Medicine, Velammal Medical College & Research Institute on 2nd February 2022. Our Mahelerecen org – Leprosy Centre மதுரை தொழுநோய் ஒழிப்பு மையம். Programme Co-ordiantor Mr. Raja and Associate Mr.Vincent talked “Serving Leprosy Patients -Our Journey and Experiences” for the medical college students. We Thank to HOD Dr Samir Bele and team members for providing this wonderful opportunity. GreatNonprofits Velammal_Medicalcollege

#WorldNTDDay #BeatNTDs Global Leprosy Champions #globalpartnershipforzeroleprosy

Key Messages

1. Together we can lift up every voice and honor the experiences of people who have experienced leprosy.
2. People who experience leprosy face mental wellbeing challenges due to stigma, discrimination, and isolation.
3. People who experience leprosy have the right to a dignified life free from disease-related stigma and discrimination.