VOICED: Leprosy on the rise in India's slums

Leprosy, an ancient disease, continues to affect people in India, particularly in urban slums with poor sanitation. The disease causes nerve and skin damage, leading to disfigurement if untreated. Patients like John and Smita face challenges due to the disease and its social stigma. Despite being curable, leprosy lacks attention and funding compared to other diseases. Education and awareness are crucial to combat this issue, especially in cities like Mumbai.

What are the primary effects of untreated leprosy on the human body?

• It causes temporary skin irritation.

• It causes temporary muscle weakness.

• It leads to permanent nerve and skin damage.

• It results in immediate organ failure.

How does the social stigma of leprosy affect patients like Smita?

• It encourages them to seek more medical help.

• It makes them more open about their condition.

• It causes them to hide their symptoms due to shame.

• It leads to increased financial support from the community.

What is a significant environmental factor that contributes to the spread of leprosy?

• High altitude regions

• Cold climate zones

• Areas with poor sanitation

• Desert regions

Why does leprosy receive less attention compared to diseases like tuberculosis and cancer?

• It is not seen as a major disease.

• It is easily curable without drugs.

• It has a high mortality rate.

• It is considered a major disease.

What role does education play in combating leprosy according to the transcript?

• It eliminates the disease completely.

• It reduces the need for medical treatment.

• It increases awareness about the disease's impact.

• It helps in developing new drugs.