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The national leprosy eradication programme in India
1Leprosy Division, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, New Delhi, India.
World Health Statistics Quarterly. Rapport Trimestriel De Statistiques Sanitaires Mondiales
|January 1, 1991
Summary
India faces the world's largest leprosy burden, with millions affected. The National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) uses multidrug therapy (MDT) and early detection to control the disease by 2000.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Infectious Diseases
- Epidemiology
Background:
- India has the highest global leprosy prevalence, with 4 million estimated patients and 2.4 million registered cases by June 1990.
- Leprosy distribution is uneven, with 8 states accounting for 90% of registered cases, highlighting regional disparities in disease burden.
Purpose of the Study:
- To outline the strategies and progress of India's National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP).
- To detail the implementation of multidrug therapy (MDT) and other control measures to eliminate leprosy.
Main Methods:
- The National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) employs a multi-pronged strategy including multidrug therapy (MDT), early case detection, health education, and rehabilitation.
- Expansion of MDT coverage to 196 districts by 1992, aiming for 90% patient coverage, supported by a specialized infrastructure of 8,500 establishments.
Main Results:
- By June 1990, 130 districts and 2.15 million patients were under MDT, with plans to expand coverage significantly.
- The program involves substantial government investment (600 million rupees annually) and support from international agencies and NGOs, with WHO providing technical assistance.
Conclusions:
- India's NLEP is a comprehensive initiative aiming to eradicate leprosy by the year 2000 through widespread MDT and integrated healthcare strategies.
- Ongoing review of operational and technical challenges is crucial for optimizing leprosy control efforts and achieving program goals.