Since the old day, leprosy has been seen as a highly contagious condition and can affect people by sharing the same air. This is why people affected by this disease are always discriminated against and treated quite badly. They were often banished from the village and were forced to live in exile. This is because, at that time, we don’t have the proper knowledge and understanding of the disease, which created multiple rumors and misconceptions.   

Today, after years of research and studies, we have come to know that, like any other disease, leprosy is also caused by a foreign entity. Mycobacterium leprae, a bacterium, has surfaced as the prime cause of the disease. This bacterium attacks the peripheral nerves and skin, resulting in loss of sensation and eventually mutilation of the skin. The first signs of this disease can be observed on limbs and fingers, however, it can take about 5-7 years for the symptoms to show. It is also a reason why treating leprosy is difficult.  

Nowadays, we created effective clinical dermatology treatments that can reduce the effects of the disease and prevent it from spreading.   

Leprosy is primarily treated with topical medication consists of anti-biotics. Clofazimine, Rifampin, and Dapsone are frequently used as they are quite effective in reducing the symptoms. In the last 20 years, about 15 million leprosy-affected people were treated globally, which indicates that we can defeat this disease. What we need to do is to keep an open mind and to start proper leprosy treatment in Indore or somewhere near you in time. This will help in containing the diseases, and with time it will be cured.