On February 6, 2023, World Leprosy Day, business leaders gathered for the book launch: “Dr. S. K. Noordeen: Architect of the Global Leprosy Elimination Program” authored by Dr. Derek Lobo, a trustee on the board of the Sasakawa India Leprosy Foundation (S-ILF). The event′s main guest was Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, a former chief scientist for the World Health Organization (WHO).

The Sasakawa-India Leprosy Foundation (S-ILF) event offered a forum for discussion on the current situation of leprosy patients all over the world. Dr. Lobo continued, "India accounts for 57% of worldwide leprosy cases, with 121 nations accounting for 40% of instances." Leprosy has been completely eradicated in 31 nations, according to the WHO, and there have only been less than 10 instances nationwide in 30 other countries. Only three nations have reported more than 10,000 cases of leprosy: Brazil, India, and Indonesia.

Dr. S. Swaminathan stated that the WHO is appreciative that Dr. Noordeen was able to establish the plan to work towards eliminating leprosy at the proper time and that it is crucial to comprehend the disease′s features in order to eradicate it. We must recognize the truth that leprosy is not contagious, poses no risk, and those who are sick can lead active lives.

She expressed gratitude to the Sasakawa Foundation and mentioned that stigma plays a major role in making a leprosy diagnosis difficult. The World Health Organization (WHO) and leprosy-affected nations are working on early detection, increasing awareness, and enhancing the abilities of healthcare professionals to test using current techniques. We require organizations like S-ILF that can assist in advocacy and support those who are infected given the constant expansion in treatment trials and research advancements.

Although leprosy is curable with a combination of medications, if left untreated, it can lead to permanent impairment.

(Source:  https://health.economictimes.indiatimes.com/news/industry/india-accounts-for-57-of-leprosy-cases-globally/97672229)