Leprosy
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that chiefly affects the skin, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, the peripheral nerves, eyes and certain other areas of the body. Leprosy has been a major health problem for man since time immemorial. It was once prevalent in every continent and has left behind a terrifying image of disfigurement, rejection and segregation from society.
Important Facts About Leprosy:
- Leprosy is the least contagious of all communicable diseases, and it does not spread through casual touch.
- A germ causes leprosy. Neither is it hereditary nor is it due to curse of God.
- If you notice pale or copper coloured patches on the skin with numbness or a change in colour and texture, it may be leprosy. Consult a doctor.
- Leprosy can be fully cured through Multi Drug Therapy or MDT.
- Early detection and regular therapy with MDT prevents disabilities and deformities arising out of leprosy.
- MDT is available free of cost at all Government health centres, dispensaries and hospitals on all working days.
- Treated leprosy patients can carry on living at home and doing normal work.
A few hospitals/clinics specializing in leprosy treatment:
- Mahakuma Kustha Nibarani Samity Mkns, Kolkata (External website that opens in a new window)
- The Leprosy Mission Hospital, Barabanki (External website that opens in a new window)
- Belgaum Leprosy Hospital (External website that opens in a new window)
- TLM Community Hospital, Naini (External website that opens in a new window)
- Bethesda Leprosy Home and Hospital, Ramachandrapuram (External website that opens in a new window)
- TLM Chandkhuri Leprosy Hospital (External website that opens in a new window)
- Saldoha Leprosy and Community Hospital (External website that opens in a new window)
- Other TLM Community Hospitals (External website that opens in a new window)
- Indian Leprosy Association (External website that opens in a new window)
Source: National Portal Content Management Team, Reviewed on:27-05-2008 
