ADDRESSING LEPROSY AND EMPOWERING VULNERABLE CHILDREN

According to World Health Organisation “Leprosy, is a chronic infectious disease caused mainly by a type of bacteria called Mycobacterium leprae. The disease affects the skin, the peripheral nerves, the mucosa of the upper respiratory tract and the eyes. Apart from the physical deformity, persons affected by leprosy also face stigmatization and discrimination. However, leprosy is curable and treatment in the early stages can prevent disability”.

The stigma surrounding leprosy persists, creating significant medical, social, and psychologicalchallenges for those affected. Despite India formally eliminating leprosy as a public health problem in 2005, it continues to bear a substantial burden, accounting for nearly 58% of global cases. In 2018 alone, 135,485 new cases were detected, highlighting the on-going need for intervention.

Inspired by the profound work of Saint Teresa, The Lepra India Trust began its mission in the late 1990s, initially assisting the Missionaries of Charity in East Delhi with the treatment and rehabilitation of leprosy patients. Our formal outreach program officially launched in 2006, laying the groundwork for our comprehensive efforts.

COMPASSIONATE CARE FOR LEPROSY PATIENTS

Comprehensive Treatment & Surgery: Providing a wide range of treatments for both outpatients and inpatients, including reconstructive surgery performed by the dedicated Dr. S. Chadha at the Missionaries of Charity home in Seemapuri, East Delhi.

Mobile Health Camps: Mobile van, staffed with a doctor and helper, organized weekly health camps providing medical examination and treatment on the streets of New Delhi’s upscale Lodhi Road area. Organized weekly health camps for leprosy-affected families at Majnu Ka Tila, North Delhi. We extend our heartfelt gratitude for the invaluable dedication of the late Dr. M. Saha, who passed away on January 8, 2020.

Trained counsellors: also provided crucial psychological support, especially due to the deep-seated stigma.

Generously supported by many donors including the Tata Trusts from 2014 to 2018, this program provided free treatment to more than 35,000 leprosy patients and conducted 1,000 physiotherapy sessions.