A Holistic View on Leprosy: Ziqitza Healthcare's Contribution on World Leprosy Day
World Leprosy Day, observed annually on January 30th, serves as a crucial platform to raise awareness about leprosy, or Hansen’s disease, and advocate for the eradication of this chronic bacterial infection affecting the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes. Ziqitza Healthcare Limited, committed to dispelling misconceptions surrounding leprosy, emphasizes that the disease is curable and should not be stigmatized.
Medical Experts at Ziqitza Healthcare Ltd highlights India’s longstanding battle with leprosy, accounting for over 60% of global cases, as per the World Health Organization (WHO). Despite strides in reducing new cases, challenges persist, with societal misconceptions leading to discrimination and delayed treatment.
Mr. Naresh Jain, Director at Ziqitza Healthcare, affirms the importance of combating these challenges, stating, “Our mission is to dispel myths surrounding leprosy and ensure access to timely diagnosis and treatment, fostering a society that views leprosy without stigma.”
One major hurdle is the prevailing lack of awareness among the general population, perpetuating beliefs in leprosy as a divine curse. Consequently, affected individuals encounter social exclusion. Ziqitza Healthcare stresses that addressing these misconceptions is vital to prompt diagnosis and effective treatment.
Access to early diagnosis and treatment remains a significant challenge, particularly in rural and remote areas. Ziqitza Healthcare’s Punjab team asserts that despite these obstacles, numerous organizations, including WHO and the Indian government, are actively working to raise awareness and improve healthcare accessibility.
Ms. Sweta Mangal Ziqitza Co-Founder, emphasizes, “Collaboration is crucial in our fight against leprosy. By working hand in hand with communities, governments, and international organizations, we can bridge gaps in understanding and accessibility.”
The World Health Organization’s Indian office plays a pivotal role in supporting the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP). WHO facilitates the supply of necessary drugs, offers technical assistance, and contributes to planning and community education.
Leprosy remains endemic in various states and union territories of India, with a prevalence rate of 0.4 per 10,000 population. The annual case detection rate stands at 4.56 per 10,000 population. Although progress has been made, 58.1% of new cases were multibacillary, highlighting the need for continued efforts.
World Leprosy Day serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing battle against leprosy. While India has made significant strides, Ziqitza emphasizes the need for sustained efforts to ensure universal access to early diagnosis, treatment, and the elimination of social stigma associated with the disease. Similar thoughts were shared by Ziqitza Rajasthan in the past.
About Ziqitza Healthcare Limited
Ziqitza Health Care Limited serves as a comprehensive healthcare solution, offering services such as Ambulance at Site, Medical Helplines, Mobile Medical Units, Ambulance on Subscription, Wellness at Workplace, Telehealth Services, Medical Rooms, Doctors on Site, and Occupational Health Centers. With a network comprising 3,300 ambulances, state-of-the-art Helpline centers, and medical mobile units, Ziqitza Limited caters to two customers every second. Recognized with accolades such as the Global Real Impact Awards in 2021 and 2022 and the ET Leadership Awards for Healthcare Excellence, Ziqitza Limited is dedicated to making a positive impact on healthcare accessibility.
For further information, please contact: visakh.dayanandan@zhl.in
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