Dhaka: Superstitions surrounding leprosy have largely diminished in the country, and the prevalence of the disease has declined significantly; however, greater coordination alongside increased resources remains essential to achieve its elimination.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the World Health Organization (WHO) set a number of targets in 1991 for the global elimination of leprosy, including reducing patients undergoing treatment to less than one per 10,000 individuals by 2000. Bangladesh achieved this milestone in 1998, thanks to the combined efforts of the government health department and several non-governmental organizations, notably Christian missionary institutions that have been involved in leprosy care in the country for over a century.
When Bangladesh gained independence, leprosy was prevalent, although specific epidemiological data are lacking. The sight of individuals affected by leprosy begging in major cities was common, a situation that has since improved. Advanced cases of leprosy resulting in disabilities have become rare. Historically, leprosy was associated with superstition, viewed as a result of sin, leading to social exclusion and limited access to healthcare. Today, the causes and treatment of the disease are well understood.
The Leprosy Mission International Bangladesh, along with other organizations, has been pivotal in advancing leprosy care. Sholomon Sumon Halder, the organization's country director, emphasized the strengthened programs for identifying patients, increased public awareness, available treatment options, and rehabilitation initiatives.
Christian missionaries set up a leprosy treatment facility in 1913, which has evolved into the Christian Leprosy Care Centre, one of the oldest of its kind in the region. A similar effort was initiated in 1954 in Tangail by American sisters, later managed by the Damien Foundation post-1972. The Danish Bangladesh Leprosy Mission began its work in 1977 in Nilphamari with Danish support, recognizing the need for a comprehensive approach beyond hospital treatment.
The National Leprosy Elimination Programme, introduced in 1993, operates under the Health, Nutrition and Population Sector Programme, focusing on prompt treatment, social and economic support, and rehabilitation. Every upazila health complex now provides leprosy diagnosis and treatment services, with support from eight NGOs, including The Leprosy Mission International Bangladesh, LEPRA Bangladesh, and others. These organizations focus on dispelling superstitions, raising awareness, and training health workers.
Technical assistance from the World Health Organization and the International Centre for Diarrhoeal Disease Research, Bangladesh (icddr,b) has been instrumental in supporting the government's efforts. The Directorate General of Health Services reports a significant reduction in leprosy prevalence, from 10,000-11,000 annual cases in the mid-1980s to 2,724 cases in 2020.
The government's ambitious target is to detect no new leprosy cases in Bangladesh post-2030. Achieving this goal will require enhanced coordination and increased resources, as indicated by government and non-government officials involved in the elimination efforts.