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Causes
Leprosy (also known as Hansen's disease) is caused by bacteria which attack nerves in the extremities of the body like your hands, feet and face leaving them numb.
If left untreated, leprosy can affect the peripheral nerves and cause the fingers and toes to claw inwards. The disease can also attack the eyes, resulting in infections, cataracts and even preventable blindness.
Ulcers and infections in the hands and feet are common because bruises, cuts and burns are ignored when the skin loses sensitivity. Untreated infections can become so severe that disfigurement and amputations may result.
People living in poor communities are much more vulnerable to leprosy. Dirty water, lack of sanitation, poor nutrition and lower standards of living mean people's immune systems are simply not strong enough to fight the disease.
There is a cure, and disability can be completely avoided if leprosy is diagnosed and treated early enough. A combination of drugs, known as multi-drug therapy (or MDT), kills the bacteria and the cure success rate is approximately 99%.
About Leprosy
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Consequences
In almost every country where we work, stigma towards leprosy-affected individuals and their families still exists. -
Cure
A combination of three separate drugs (Dapsone, Clofazimine and Rifampicin) known as multi-drug therapy (or MDT) kills the bacteria that causes leprosy. -
Frequently asked questions
Leprosy still exists today and it affects families across generations. Leprosy is curable. We believe this dreadful disease can be eradicated in a generation. -
Further Information
There are many organisations around the world that work towards the goal of eradicating the causes and consequences of leprosy.
