Leprosy Elimination: WHO & Novartis Extend Partnership, Fight Stigma | World Leprosy Day 2025

The World Health Organization (WHO) is emphasizing the critical need for continued access to leprosy treatment as global efforts aim to eliminate the ancient disease. This push coincides with World Leprosy Day, observed annually on January 25th.

Understanding Leprosy

A Disease Rooted in History

Leprosy is caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae and is one of the oldest known infectious diseases. It primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves. If left untreated, leprosy can lead to progressive and permanent disabilities, as well as significant social stigma and isolation.

The Power of Treatment

Fortunately, leprosy is curable with multidrug therapy (MDT). Access to this treatment is central to ongoing elimination efforts. In 2024, data from 188 countries, areas, or territories showed that 55 reported zero cases. However, 172,717 new cases were still detected and reported to the WHO in the same year.

Did You Know? The WHO has collaborated with Novartis since 2000 to provide MDT and clofazimine, free of cost, to all leprosy patients worldwide.

A Renewed Commitment

Sustained Partnership

A long-standing partnership between the WHO and pharmaceutical company Novartis has been crucial in providing free treatment. This collaboration, now in its 25th year, has been extended through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for another five years (2026-2030). The extension will continue the supply of MDT and also fund the procurement and distribution of single dose rifampicin (SDR) for post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP).

Voices of Leadership

Dr. Jeremy Farrar, WHO Assistant Director-General for Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Care, highlighted the importance of this partnership, stating that the commitment of organizations like Novartis has “helped transform millions of lives and moved us closer to a world free from this ancient disease.” Dr. Lutz Hegemann, President of Global Health at Novartis, affirmed the company’s dedication to reaching more patients and pursuing a leprosy-free world.

Expert Insight: The sustained, cost-free provision of MDT and now SDR represents a significant logistical and financial undertaking. The continuation of this partnership suggests a commitment to not only treating existing cases but also to preventing new infections through post-exposure prophylaxis.

Beyond Treatment: Addressing Stigma

The Hidden Burden

While medical advancements have made leprosy treatable, the social stigma surrounding the disease remains a major challenge. WHO Goodwill Ambassador for Leprosy Elimination, Mr. Yohei Sasakawa, noted that stigma can be “more problematic than the disease itself,” leading to discrimination in areas like divorce, education, and employment, even after a person is cured.

A Broader Context

Leprosy is categorized as a Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD). Efforts to eliminate leprosy contribute to the wider global push to combat NTDs. The NTD Roadmap 2021-2030 focuses on interrupting the transmission of leprosy and ultimately eliminating the disease. Key strategies include contact screening, preventive chemotherapy, and addressing stigma and discrimination.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the symptoms of leprosy?

Leprosy predominantly affects the skin and peripheral nerves. Left untreated, it may cause progressive and permanent disabilities.

Is leprosy contagious?

Leprosy is an infectious disease caused by a type of bacteria, but it is not highly contagious.

What is the current theme for World Leprosy Day?

The theme for this year’s World Leprosy Day is “Leprosy is curable, the real challenge is stigma”.

As progress continues, what role do you believe community engagement will play in overcoming the remaining challenges to leprosy elimination?