Leprosy
What is Leprosy?
Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a chronic infectious disease caused by a slow-growing bacterium called Mycobacterium leprae.
It primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, upper respiratory tract, eyes, and testes.
The disease is curable, and early diagnosis and treatment are crucial to prevent disabilities.
Key Facts about Leprosy
Curable: Leprosy is completely curable with Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT).
Low Infectivity: It is not highly contagious. Transmission occurs through prolonged, close contact with an untreated person with leprosy, primarily through droplets from the nose and mouth.
Not Hereditary: Leprosy is not passed down through familie
Global Burden: While significantly reduced, leprosy still affects thousands globally, with many cases concentrated in certain regions.
FACTS About Leprosy
MYTHS vs TRUTH — With Nishandar Foundation’s Action:-
1. Leprosy is Completely Curable
With Multi-Drug Therapy (MDT), patients recover fully.
Nishandar Foundation helps patients access free treatment through government and medical partners.
2. Leprosy is Not Highly Contagious
It spreads only through long-term close contact with an untreated patient.
We spread awareness in communities to stop unnecessary fear.
3. Early Treatment Prevents Disability
When identified early, leprosy does not cause deformities.
We conduct free medical camps, dressing support, and early detection initiatives.
4. Treated Patients Are Not Infectious
They can live normally in society, work, study, and marry.
Nishandar Foundation advocates for social inclusion and fights stigma.
5. Leprosy is Caused by a Bacteria
It is a medical condition — not a curse, not hereditary, and not a punishment.
Treatment and Medical Aspects
Medicines for Leprosy (Multi-Drug Therapy – MDT):
- MDT is a highly effective combination of antibiotics that kills the Mycobacterium leprae bacteria.
- The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends MDT, which typically includes Rifampicin, Dapsone, and Clofazimine.
- Treatment duration varies (usually 6 or 12 months) depending on the type of leprosy.
- MDT is provided free of charge by the WHO to all endemic countries.
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Dispelling Common Myths about Leprosy
MYTHS vs TRUTH — With Nishandar Foundation’s Action:-
Myth 1: Leprosy spreads by touch
Truth: Touch, sharing food, or sitting together does not spread the disease.
Our Work: We counsel families and local communities to prevent discrimination.
Myth 2: Leprosy patients should be isolated
Truth: Once treatment starts, the patient is non-infectious.
Our Work: We help reintegrate patients into society and provide emotional support.
Myth 3: Body parts fall off in leprosy
Truth: They don’t. Nerve damage can cause injuries that worsen without care.
Our Work: Daily & weekly wound dressing for chronic ulcers Medical kits, bandages, and hygiene materials
Myth 4: Leprosy is hereditary
Truth: It does not pass from parent to child.
Our Work: We ensure children from leprosy colonies receive
How Nishandar Foundation Supports Leprosy Patients
Medical Support & Emergency Care
- Free wound dressing & ulcer care
- Referral to government hospitals
- Emergency rescue of abandoned or critically ill patients
- Medicines, gloves, bandages, ORS, and essential medical supplies
2. Food, Ration & Clothing Distribution
- Monthly ration kits for families
- Nutritious meals for elderly and abandoned patients
- Seasonal clothing, blankets, and footwear distribution
3. Education for Children
- Helping children from leprosy colonies study in English-medium schools
- Fees support, books, bags, uniforms
- Counselling and mentorship
Rehabilitation & Livelihood
- Support for elderly who cannot work
- Helping families access government schemes
5. Social Awareness & Stigma Removal
- Awareness campaigns on facts vs myths
- Sessions in slums, schools, and communities
- Encouraging society to treat patients with dignity
6. Shelter & Humanitarian Support
- Supporting homeless leprosy patients
- Arranging admission to old-age homes or hospitals
NISHANDAR FOUNDATION is requesting you to join hands with us in this noble work. We humbly appeal to you to sponsor any one of the needs mentioned below, or contribute more according to your capacity. Your support can bring dignity, healing, and hope to leprosy-affected patients and their families.
Every single rupee makes a difference.
Description | Price |
Medicine (include Dressing Items For One Leprosy Patient) | ₹2800/- |
Monthly Ration (One Family) | ₹2890/- |
Education Fees + Stationary | ₹5000/- |
Medicine for 300 patients for 1 Month | ₹35000/- |