World Leprosy Day - Sunday 29 January 2023
World Leprosy Day is a celebration of the leprosy community and an opportunity to raise public awareness of leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease. On the last Sunday of January*, the international community advocates for the rights of people affected by leprosy and joins to combat the medical and social implications of leprosy. We look forward to celebrating World Leprosy Day on 29 January 2023.
World Leprosy Day was established in 1954 by French journalist and activist, Raoul Follereau. Follereau created World Leprosy Day with two goals: to advocate for the equal treatment of persons affected by leprosy and to reeducate the public about leprosy by correcting historical misconceptions surrounding the disease.
The theme of World Leprosy Day 2023 is “Act Now. End Leprosy.” This year's theme calls attention to three key messages:
- Elimination is possible: We have the power and tools to stop transmission and defeat this disease.
- Act now: We need the resources and commitment to end leprosy. Prioritize leprosy elimination.
- Reach the unreached: Leprosy is preventable and treatable. Suffering from leprosy is needless.
An online social media toolkit has been developed for those interested to take part in the World Leprosy Day 2023 campaign.
*In India, World Leprosy Day is celebrated on 30 January, the anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi’s death