The characteristics and mode of detection of the new patients encountered in the leprosy endemic province of Van within the last five years.

Between 1983-1987, the Istanbul Leprosy Centre (ILC) organized in Van a leprosy education program for medical personnel and the local population, subsequently whole population surveys and case contact surveys were carried out independently in different regions. 66 new cases were detected during those years 56 (85%) patients were diagnosed by ILC teams at the field and at the hospital. In 49 (74%) of the 66 there was one or more close contact within the family, in 17 (26%) there was none, but old patients in the village or nearby. It is concluded that the education of the local medical authorities and the population is of utmost importance for the early diagnosis and patient-close contact surveys are the best for our country.