Leprosy in Nepal (OLC)

Course overview

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. Its transmitted through inhalation, is highly infectious and is still prevalent in many areas of the world. Leprosy is a terrible disease that has been feared since biblical times and is referred to as "Walking Deat". It causes nerve damage and muscle weakness that can lead to deformities, disabilities, crippling, blindness and isolation. It usually affects peripheral nerves causing loss of feeling in the hands, feet and eyes, making it difficult to complete daily tasks and hold a job, which in turn leaves those affected in extreme poverty. In Lalgadh, Nepal there is a very successful leprosy hospital that diagnoses over 1,200 new cases of leprosy each year and has over 12,400 leprosy patient visits annually. With this high volume of patients, they are presented with many cases all presenting a variety of symptoms. This presentation will cover the three classifications of leprosy as well as the bio-medical and social courses of the disease. The Lalgadh Leprosy Hospital and Service Center appears to manage more of both new and returning leprosy patients than any other leprosy hospital in the world. Their services go beyond treating the physical aspects of the disease. They have a holistic approach to treating both the bio-medical and social issues these patients face.