Back to search
Publication

Innovative methods for leprosy new case detection by tent awareness programmes in an urban setting in India

Abstract

Summary This study formed part of a larger multicentre study “Development of a Population Based Leprosy Registry (PBLR) and New Case Detection Strategies (NCDS) to Eradicate Leprosy in Urban Areas” which was conducted by The Leprosy Mission Trust India and funded by the Indian Council for Medical Research. The aim of the study was to identify the effectiveness of a ‘Tent Awareness Program’ as a strategy to increase new case detection in an urban setting. The leprosy tent awareness programme was carried out in Kolkata Metropolitan City, in identified areas near densely populated places where many people congregate. On a market day or local ‘haat’, a tent was set up in a public area by the roadside, in a place which was designated by the local authorities. Posters along with banners were placed around the tent to catch the attention of the people and leaflets giving basic facts about leprosy were distributed. Loudspeaker announcements were also made from the tent by the staff about the disease, concerning early symptoms, the importance of early treatment, the treatment centres near the area and other relevant information. 13 such programmes were conducted, which covered approximately 21,000 people. From this effort, 14 new untreated leprosy cases were identified through voluntary reporting, among whom nine were of multi-bacillary and five of pauci-bacillary type. The Leprosy Tent Programme can be carried out on a regular basis by a small number of staff with minimal expense. This increases awareness as well as case detection and could be a good tool in the battle against leprosy.

More information

Type
Journal Article
Author
Govindharaj P
John A