Intro to Intro to Leprosy Leprosy

It was in 600 B.C. when Sushruta, an Indian physician, wrote the ancient medical text "Sushruta Samhita," in which he described Kustha, a term that enclosed all skin diseases. This term meant "eating away, " and nowadays defines Leprosy.

For centuries, Leprosy was also known as "death before death" or a " curse from God." It has been stigmatized all around the world with prejudice emerging from a lack of knowledge about the disease.

Contrary to popular belief, this disease still affects hundreds nowadays. This is why we celebrate "World Leprosy Day" on January 29 every year. That day also coincides with the death of Mahatma Gandhi, whose campaign for Leprosy saved countless lives. On World Leprosy Day, we get informed, inform in return and stand in solidarity with those affected. This year ’ s theme is "Act Now, End Leprosy," and truly, it is only with our immediate actions to raise awareness about Leprosy that we can end it once and for all.