Dimapur, January 30 (MExN): Anti-Leprosy Day was commemorated at the Chief Medical Officer’s office with the launching of SPARSH Leprosy Awareness Campaign 2018 on January 30.
During the programme, Dr. Heto, ZLO, NLEP reoriented the gatherings on the objective of SPARSH Leprosy Awareness Campaign. He stated that in order to address the issue of high level of stigma attached to leprosy and to increase awareness about the aspect of leprosy, this campaign was launched under NLEP on January 30.
“The thrust of this campaign is to promote community participation to reduce stigma and discrimination against leprosy, enhance early case reporting and reduce leprosy related disabilities,” he shared while adding that “through awareness and education, stigmas can be removed and the number of drop-out rates can be reduced.”
He further informed that during the campaign, the health workers will visit public areas such as railway station, bus terminals, and hospitals and identified villages where new leprosy cases may be detected. He also stated that the bulk of leprosy cases in Nagaland are from Dimapur district as per the latest statistics.
Dr. Heto also appreciated the NLEP staff for their sincerity and dedicated and especially appreciated the knowledge and practical experiences the staffs have on the NLEP programme.
Dr. Antoly, Deputy Chief Medical Officer said that Leprosy is a disease that can be trace back to ancient times and it is still prevalent today. However, Leprosy is a totally curable disease and no stigma should be attached to it. She further urged the Health workers to carry out the campaign with love and compassion for the patient so that patients may come forward and seek medical help.
Dr. Antoly led the participants in taking the SPARSH Leprosy PLEDGE to work together and fulfil the dream of Mahatma Gandhi to create a Leprosy-Free India.
