Why we should stop using the word leprosy.

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Medical History
• Sociology

Background:

• Leprosy remains endemic globally, affecting over 200,000 annually and causing significant impairment.
• Historical biblical use of 'leprosy' encompassed various skin conditions, fostering stigma, impurity, and divine punishment associations.
• Stigmatization and discrimination are major barriers to global leprosy elimination efforts.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze the impact of renaming leprosy to Hansen's disease in Brazil.
• To evaluate the effectiveness of terminology changes in combating stigma and discrimination.
• To advocate for dignifying language and terminology in public health initiatives.

Main Methods:

• Review of historical context and biblical interpretations of leprosy.
• Analysis of the Brazilian experience with renaming leprosy to Hansen's disease since 1975.
• Examination of global initiatives and patient advocacy efforts.

Main Results:

• Brazil's renaming of leprosy to Hansen's disease has shown clear benefits in reducing stigma and discrimination over four decades.
• Despite global elimination efforts and WHO actions, concrete measures to dignify language are still needed.
• Patient organizations have long advocated for improved terminology.

Conclusions:

• Renaming leprosy to Hansen's disease is an effective strategy to combat stigma and discrimination.
• Dignifying language and terminology is essential for successful public health interventions and patient well-being.
• Urgent implementation of concrete measures is required to address the persistent stigma associated with the disease.