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National Leprosy Eradiction Programme

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      NATIONAL LEPROSY ERADICATION PROGRAMME

Introduction:

Since the inception of National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) in the year 1983 spectacular success have been made in reducing the burden of Leprosy. The country achieved the goal of leprosy elimination as a public health problem. i.e. prevalence rate (PR) of less than 1 case / 10,000 population at National level by December 2005, as set by National Health Policy 2002. Although prevalence has come down at national and state level, new cases are being continuously detected and these cases will have to be provided quality leprosy services through GHC system.

 

About NLEP

 1955 - National Leprosy Control Program with Dapsone mono therapy .

 1982 introduction of Multi Drug Therapy with Rifampicin, Clofazimine and Dapsone

 1983 National Leprosy Eradication Program

 2005 India achieved elimination of leprosy in December (i.e. less than 1 case per 10,000 population)

 

Ultimate vision of NLEP : Leprosy Free India by 2030

  • Zero Leprosy Case
  • Zero Child leprosy Cases
  • Zero Grade II disabilities among new leprosy cases
  • Zero stigma and discrimination against persons affected by leprosy.

 

Major activities under NLEP

  • Early detection and treatment of leprosy is the major step to prevent transmission of disease in the community and to prevent visible deformities
  • Disability Prevention and Medical Rehabilitation –Reconstrutive surgery for deformities, provision of Micro cellular rubber (MCR) chappals, aids & appliances like wheel chairs, crutches, goggles etc .These services are provided free of cost
  • Trainings - Medical officers , Health Workers ,Para Medical workers, ASHA workers ,
  • Sensitization-, Sensitisation- Para Medical workers, Anganawadi workers, Tribal Promoters, , Educated youngsters of high risk communities etc

 

Objectives of IEC initiatives are

  • To create general awareness about leprosy- signs, symptoms, cause, deformities and free treatment availability in health institutions
  • Encourage voluntary reporting to health centers for diagnosis and treatment
  • Reduction in stigma
  • Special focus on target groups – slums, coastal regions & tribal population.