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Leprosy : The Disease
Leprosy is a disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, a bacterium which primarily affects the skin and
peripheral nerves. The main mode of transmission is considered to be
air-borne, through droplets discharged from the respiratory tract of
untreated infectious cases, who form <10% of the clinical cases. The
disease is completely curable with multi-drug therapy (MDT) and is considered
to be one of the least infectious disease, with >99% of the population
having adequate immunity against the disease. However, the disease entails
traditional stigma and those affected can be victims of discrimination and
often displacement. This is mainly due to the disabilities and deformities
that occur as a consequence of peripheral nerve damage in leprosy.
A Disease of
Poverty
Leprosy is a leading cause of permanent disability in the
world and predominantly affects the poor marginalized people. Although not
fatal, the chronic symptoms often afflict individuals in their most
productive stage of life and therefore impose a significant social and
economic burden on society. In addition to its economic impact, leprosy
imposes a heavy social burden upon affected individuals and their families.
Patients are often shunned, stigmatized, isolated and sometimes displaced
from their work, marriage and social set-up, needing care and financial
support leading to further insecurity, shame, and consequent economic loss.
Frequently
Asked Questions
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