Trichy District Sees Over 100 Leprosy Cases in Nine-Month Period
In a recent health update, Trichy district in Tamil Nadu reported more than 100 leprosy cases from April to December last year, indicating a slight increase compared to previous years. According to official data from the DDMS (Leprosy), a total of 102 cases were documented during this period. This figure includes 35 women and seven children, highlighting the diverse impact of the disease across demographics.
Breakdown of Cases Across Blocks and Urban Areas
The rise in cases was particularly noted in several blocks, including Thiruverumbur, Manikandam, Marungapuri, Thuraiyur, and Musiri. Additionally, Trichy urban area contributed 14 cases to the total. When compared to past years, the district recorded 82 cases in 2024–25, 110 in 2023–24, 79 in 2022–23, 55 in 2021–22, and 53 cases in 2020–21, showing fluctuations in incidence rates over time.
Officials Attribute Increase to Enhanced Screening Efforts
Health authorities have linked the uptick in cases to intensified screening initiatives under the National Leprosy Eradication Programme. The first phase of this effort, conducted in August last year, covered multiple blocks and led to the detection of approximately 40 cases. A second phase is currently ongoing, as confirmed by health educator S R Murugesan.
Murugesan explained, "With door-to-door screening and regular health camps, the increase may be due to better reporting and people overcoming stigma and coming forward for diagnosis." He added that another phase of screening may be conducted this year, pending approval, to further bolster detection and treatment efforts.
Comprehensive Screening Reaches Vulnerable Populations
Last year's survey was extensive, screening nearly 26 lakh people with a focus on vulnerable groups such as industrial workers, migrants, construction workers, and residents of border areas. Schoolchildren were also included in the screening process under the Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram (RBSK), supported by field staff to ensure broad coverage.
Understanding Leprosy: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Leprosy, caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae, is primarily spread through close contact or respiratory droplets from an untreated individual. Early symptoms often include red patches, numbness, rashes, and nosebleeds, making timely detection crucial for effective management.
Treatment typically involves a multi-drug therapy lasting from six months to one year, aimed at curing the disease and preventing transmission. These efforts are part of a larger goal to achieve zero leprosy by 2027, as emphasized by health officials in Trichy and across India.
