NLR: Millions at risk of developing leprosy: new study predicts 40 million people need preventive treatment to eliminate leprosy in 22 years
Retrieved on:
Monday, March 1, 2021
Co-author Professor Jan Hendrik Richardus of Erasmus MC explains: "This study provides important insight into the challenge that remains to reach zero leprosy.
Key Points:
- Co-author Professor Jan Hendrik Richardus of Erasmus MC explains: "This study provides important insight into the challenge that remains to reach zero leprosy.
- This study shows that to reduce the global number of new leprosy cases by 90% within 22 years, just over 40 million people who are at risk to develop leprosy require preventive treatment.
- On a global scale, preventive treatment of 40 million people for leprosy is achievable if we coordinate our resources and efforts.
- This should be done by targeting people most at risk of developing leprosy: close contacts (family, friends, neighbors) of new leprosy patients.