HT Correspondent
HAFLONG, Jan 31: The District Health Society, in collaboration with the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP), has launched the SPARSH Leprosy Awareness Campaign (SLAC) to mark “Anti-Leprosy Day.”
This two-week initiative aimed to raise awareness on leprosy, address misconceptions, and encourage early diagnosis and treatment.
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Leprosy, though entirely curable, remains surrounded by stigma and misinformation, often discouraging people from seeking treatment. “Early diagnosis and timely treatment are vital to preventing disabilities caused by leprosy,” stated NK Bailung. joint director of health services. He noted that while only three patients in the district are currently undergoing treatment, there could be numerous unreported cases. Bailung emphasised the importance of community engagement and mobilizing resources to encourage early detection.
The campaign’s core objective is to educate communities about the disease and promote the availability of free Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT).
Partha Jahari, secretary of health at the NCHAC, highlighted the critical need to eliminate social taboos surrounding leprosy: “Stigma associated with leprosy is a major barrier. We must leverage social media and work with civil society organisations and NGOs to reshape public perception and spread accurate information.”
Assam currently reports around 1,040 leprosy cases, and the campaign aimed to ensure that affected individuals seek prompt treatment. The district health authorities are dedicated to providing comprehensive care and support to those affected.
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious condition caused by Mycobacterium leprae or Mycobacterium lepromatosis. It primarily impacts the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract, and eyes.
The awareness campaign launch event was attended by Dr M Changsan, additional CMO & HO (FW), along with medical officers and other healthcare staff, who reiterated the significance of this initiative in achieving a leprosy-free Dima Hasao.
