Understanding Leprosy: Early Signs, Causes, and Cure

World

Leprosy Day is held every year on the last Sunday of January; this year it falls on 30 January, 2026. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), leprosy is a neglected tropical disease; it still exists in over 120 countries, and 200,000 new cases are reported per year.World Leprosy Day is observed to create awareness about this disease and about its curable nature. It aims to break the various stigmas associated with leprosy.

Understanding Leprosy

Leprosy, also commonly called Hansen’s disease, remains one of the oldest known human illnesses. Its references can be traced back to ancient Indian scriptures, the Bible, and even texts from Egypt and China. Before, leprosy was considered highly contagious and incurable; people suffering from this were treated as outcasts. Leprosy mainly affects the skin and peripheral nerves. If not diagnosed in time, the disease can cause permanent disabilities. Leprosy is actually caused by Mycobacterium leprae. This bacterium belongs to the same family as the tuberculosis bacteria. “The symptoms of leprosy may appear very slowly, as the bacteria’s incubation period can range from several months to even 5-10 years,” informed Dr Deepti Ghia, dermatologist at Jaslok Hospital and Research Centre.Leprosy is not spread by simply shaking hands, sharing food, or casual contact. A person suffering from leprosy can cook and serve food without the risk of infecting others.

What Causes Leprosy?

Leprosy only spreads when you have prolonged close contact with an untreated patient. Mycobacterium leprae spreads through respiratory droplets if living in close quarters with the patient for a long time. Small and cramped spaces with no ventilation and overcrowded places like buses increase the risk of leprosy. It is very important to remember that 95 per cent of people have natural immunity against Mycobacterium leprae and will not develop leprosy even if exposed to the bacteria. People with weakened immunity and who are suffering from malnutrition are more likely to contract infections. It is a myth that leprosy is spread because of poor hygiene or food. There is no scientific correlation between the two.

Does Leprosy Have A Cure?

Yes, leprosy has a cure. Leprosy is considered a treatable disease. “Multidrug therapy (MDT), provided free of cost under national programmes, can cure leprosy effectively. If diagnosed early, patients can be treated without developing deformities or disabilities that are commonly seen in advanced stages. Once treatment is started, the patient quickly becomes non-infectious,” explained Dr Ghia.

How Can A Dermatologist Help?

Dermatologists are trained to distinguish between leprosy and other skin conditions like vitiligo and fungal infections. Slit skin smears, skin biopsies, and nerve condition studies are used to detect leprosy. Early detection may prevent long-term complications.Leprosy is not a lifelong sentence, despite what the myths say. Hence, it is very important to be aware of the real causes, signs, and treatments for leprosy.