Leprosy patterns and challenges for a leprosy free India: A retrospective study

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Original Article

Author Details : Benazir Hakim, Somnath Bhunia, Oindrila Dutta, Madhobendra Nath Sarkar, Tanvi Mallick, Suman Kundu, Arun Achar*

Volume : 10, Issue : 2, Year : 2024

Article Page : 155-158

https://doi.org/10.18231/j.ijced.2024.028

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Abstract

Introduction: Leprosy, chronic infectious disease, caused by Mycobacterium leprae, is a major public health concern in India. Though India has achieved elimination of leprosy, in 2005, as per WHO criteria, there has not been a general acceleration of downward trends in the new case detection rate (NCDR). Thus, acquiring knowledge of its epidemiological variations is essential for early new case detection and disease control.
Aims and Objectives: Evaluating current demographic, clinico-epidemiological characteristics of leprosy in a Tertiary Care Hospital, West Bengal, and identifying gaps in rehabilitation counselling and follow up.
Materials and Methods: A retrospective study including 200 patients who have attended Dermatology Outdoor, during Oct, 2022 - Sep 2023.
Result: Out of 200 patients, 112 were new cases and 88 were old, Male and female ratio was 3:2. Majority of cases were between (41-60) years, 10% comprising (10-14) years of age. Multibacillary leprosy contributes almost 60%, the most common type being BT Hansen (56%). Lepra reaction and deformity were seen around 30% &15% respectively. Around 4% of the patients, returned back as a case of relapse. Only 5% were being counselled for physical rehabilitation follow up.
Discussion: It has been seen that the number of newly diagnosed patients, leprosy in younger age population, new cases with grade 2 deformity at the time of diagnosis are not in downgrading phase. On top of that, lack of proper counselling and education for rehabilitation, and relapse of the disease were also worrying. This is the time to act on a community based appropriate strategy to break the chain in transmission of leprosy. Last but not the least, to destigmatize the disease is the need of the hour. Thus, united, we can lead towards Leprosy Free India.
 

Keywords: Leprosy, Lepra Reaction, Deformity, Relapse, Rehabilitation, Destigmatize

How to cite : Hakim B, Bhunia S, Dutta O, Sarkar M N, Mallick T, Kundu S, Achar A, Leprosy patterns and challenges for a leprosy free India: A retrospective study. IP Indian J Clin Exp Dermatol 2024;10(2):155-158

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