World Leprosy Day: Nepal celebrates progress, urges action
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease that primarily affects the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes. While it is treatable, misconceptions and stigma surrounding the disease often delay diagnosis and treatment.
On the 72nd World Leprosy Day, Dr. Rajesh Sambhajirao Pandav, WHO Representative to Nepal, celebrated Nepal’s progress in the fight against leprosy. Since eliminating leprosy as a public health problem in 2010, Nepal has reduced new cases by 25% and nearly halved child cases by 2024 compared to 2019. Over 70% of local units have reported zero child cases for five consecutive years.
However, Dr. Pandav cautioned that 18 districts remain high-risk, and stigma continues to hinder efforts for early detection and treatment. He called for increased awareness, public education, and inclusive policies to overcome these challenges. Dr. Pandav also noted Nepal’s commitment to ending stigma, following its endorsement of the 20th Global Appeal 2025 to End Stigma and Discrimination against Persons Affected by Leprosy.
This year’s World Leprosy Day theme, ‘Unite. Act. Eliminate,’ urges global action to eliminate leprosy and other neglected tropical diseases. Dr. Pandav emphasized the need for stronger healthcare systems and greater investments to achieve a leprosy-free Nepal.