Early detection vital for leprosy: Health experts stress early detection of leprosy; Stigma persists despite government efforts to eliminate discrimination

Ranchi: Health experts on Tuesday underscored the importance of early detection of leprosy and the need to eliminate social stigma associated with the disease during a consultation meeting organised by NLR India Foundation, an NGO working for persons and families affected by leprosy, other neglected tropical diseases and persons with disabilities.

Addressing the meet, experts said that timely diagnosis and treatment can prevent physical deformities and disability, which continue to affect patients detected at an advanced stage.

They expressed concern that in Jharkhand, where 7,825 leprosy cases have been reported, many patients are identified late, worsening their health condition and exposing them to discrimination and social exclusion.

State leprosy officer-cum-state non-communicable disease officer, Dr Anil Kumar said that leprosy and stigma around the disease in the society remains a major challenge for the health department.

“However, the department is focusing in debunking the myths around the disease and making the persons affected with the disease a part of the society. The department has been regularly organising leprosy case detection campaigns across the state, so that early detection can be made possible and the disease can be eradicated,” Kumar said.

He further said that strategies such as administering single dose Rifampicin, to persons who comes in contact with leprosy patients have been ensured in the state, to stop communication of the disease. “Along with that, leprosy patients are provided with Rs 500 nutritional allowance per month, so that they can have nutritious food and fight against the disease,” he added.

State programme officer of vector-borne disease, Dr Birendra Kumar Singh said that despite the govt’s proactive role in eliminating myths, stigma, and discrimination against leprosy patients, they still continue to face discrimination from the society.

“The patients are discriminated mainly after they encounter physical deformities owing to late detection. So to stop that, early detection of the disease has to be ensured. If any person observes spots on any body parts and experience lack of sensitivity in those parts, they must immediately refer to doctors, as those can be initial symptoms of leprosy,” Singh added.

Dr Ashok Agarwal, CEO of NLR India Foundation emphasised that ending leprosy requires collective action from all quarters. “Although Jharkhand has made strong progress, it demands deeper partnerships, strengthened health systems, and coordinated approaches from both the govt and commoners to eradicate the disease,” Agarwal said.