New Delhi: World Leprosy Day is observed annually on the last Sunday of January. But in India, it is observed on January 30 every year, coinciding with Mahatma Gandhi’s death anniversary. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), leprosy is one of the neglected tropical diseases that still occurs in over 120 countries. Over 200,000 new cases are reported every year.
Observing World Leprosy Day aims to raise awareness of the disease’s stigma and inform people that bacteria spread it and that it is easily curable. Every year, a different theme is set for the day, and this year, according to WHO, the theme is “Unite. Act. Eliminate”. In this article, let us understand this year’s theme.
World Leprosy Day 2025 Theme: What does Unite. Act. Eliminate mean?
World Leprosy Day is a time to celebrate people affected by leprosy, raise awareness about the disease, and fight against stigma and discrimination.
The theme for World Leprosy Day 2025 is “Unite. Act. Eliminate.” This theme encourages action to increase knowledge about leprosy, show the difficulties faced by those affected, and inspire teamwork to eliminate the disease.
Global Commitment (“Unite” ): Everyone, including governments, health workers, non-governmental organisations, communities, and individuals, needs to work together to eliminate leprosy.
Immediate Action (“Act”): We need to take proactive steps such as educating the public, diagnosing cases early, preventing the disease, providing prompt treatment, and empowering those affected by leprosy. These actions are vital to stop the disease from spreading.
A Clear Goal (“Eliminate Leprosy”): The goal is to eliminate leprosy, which the World Health Organization aims to achieve. With ongoing dedication, we can succeed. Medical treatments and teamwork have progressed, but we need continual investment in diagnosis, new treatments, and outreach efforts.
How was World Leprosy Day started?
The International Day began in 1954, thanks to Raoul Follereau, a French philanthropist and writer. He started this global effort to raise awareness about leprosy and reduce discrimination against those affected by the disease. The aim was to change how people think and feel about leprosy patients, who often face emotional and physical trauma.
Why is it celebrated on January 30 in India?
On January 30, India honours Mahatma Gandhi on the anniversary of his death. This day is also World Leprosy Day. Follereau chose this date to recognise Gandhi’s efforts to help those affected by leprosy. Gandhi showed compassion for people living with this condition.
World Leprosy Day aims to raise awareness and combat the stigma surrounding leprosy. The 2025 theme, “Unite. Act. Eliminate”, emphasises global collaboration, proactive measures like early diagnosis and treatment and the ultimate goal of leprosy eradication. Initiated in 1954 by Raoul Follereau, the day commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s death anniversary in India, highlighting his compassion for those affected by the disease. knowledge Knowledge News, Photos and Videos on General Knowledge
