What is Leprosy?

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It affects the peripheral nerves and the skin. It does not affect the spinal cord or the brain. Leprosy has a long incubation period, on average 5-7 years, and is the most complex and the most chronic of all human bacterial diseases.
 
Leprosy continues to be a serious challenge in most developing countries, contributing significantly to the physical and social disability of the patients afflicted. It remains a social and medical problem in most Pacific countries.

Is there a cure?

In the 1940s, Dapsone was used to treat leprosy. Since the 1980s, treatment has consisted of a combination of drugs known as Multiple Drug Therapy (MDT). Depending on the severity of their infection, patients receive treatment for periods ranging from 6-12 months. MDT is an effective cure for Leprosy but does not reverse its effects. MDT is provided free throughout the world by the World Health Organisation.

What of the sufferers
left disabled and disfigured?

We can greatly improve the day to day lives of those affected by leprosy through your generosity. Please help the Pacific Leprosy Foundation to help them.