In recent months, reports have flourished over an acute shortage of a key pharmaceutical, Clofazimine. The medication is central to the treatment of Leprosy, especially in the private market.
Clofazimine serves as part of a triple-drug regiment together with Rifampicin and Dapsone for Multi-Drug Treatment of Multibacillary Leprosy (MB-MDT) cases. This persistent shortage, therefore, places a significant strain on the capacity to effectively manage and treat Leprosy patients.
Leprosy: Overview and Impact
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, results from chronic bacterial infection by Mycobacterium leprae. The disease progressively affects various body parts, including the nerves of the extremities, skin, nasal lining, and the upper respiratory tract.
Symptomatically, Leprosy triggers the development of skin ulcers, nerve damage, and muscle weakness. If left untreated, it can lead to severe disfigurement and significant disability. Despite the heavy toll it exacts on human health, it is one of the oldest diseases in recorded history.
The manifestation of Leprosy is particularly prevalent in tropical or subtropical climates. Countries like India record high incidences of the disease year after year.
Leprosy Prevalence in India
The World Health Organization (WHO) paints a grim picture of Leprosy in India, reporting that the disease is endemic in multiple Indian states and union territories. These regions boast an annual case detection rate of 4.56 per 10,000 population, a level higher than many of its peers.
Annually, India records more than 125,000 new Leprosy patients, underscoring the significant public health challenge that this ancient ailment continues to pose in this country.
Government Initiatives Against Leprosy in India
In response to the persistent Leprosy challenge, the Indian government launched the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) under the broader National Health Mission. The program’s primary focus is the elimination of Leprosy at the district level by 2030.
Under the NLEP, India has achieved a significant milestone in reducing Leprosy prevalence to less than 1 case per 10,000 population at the national level. This achievement marks the elimination of Leprosy as a public health problem.
Further efforts to manage Leprosy include the SPARSH Leprosy Awareness Campaign that the government introduced in 2017. The campaign aims at promoting awareness about Leprosy and addressing related issues of stigma and discrimination against patients.
