Social aspects of leprosy in Malaysia

This paper attempts to explain both the persistence of traditional misconceptions about leprosy as well as the relative ineffectiveness of the Leprosy Control Programme. It has been pointed out that leprosy is a disease with tremendous social significance. To improve the Programme therefore, the human element which is of paramount importance must be identified and rectified. It is felt however, that we the providers should set our own house in order first. We need to find out the knowledge, attitudes and practices of the medical personnel and auxiliaries relating to leprosy, and identify the factors that contribute to their lack of motivation and undesirable attitudes which in turn deter patients from seeking and continuing treatment. Interventions based on the findings of such studies will contribute considerably towards the successful implementation of the Programme.