Madagascar Strengthens Leprosy Fight Through Early Detection

In Madagascar, leprosy continues to pose a significant public health challenge, with between 1,500 and 2,000 new cases reported annually. The disease is endemic in 37 remote districts across 16 of the country’s 24 regions. In 2024, 1,713 new cases were recorded, and nearly 350 people—about 20 percent of all cases—live with permanent disabilities caused by late diagnosis.