Introduction : Leprosy, a chronic infectious disease known for thousands of years, has long been associated with significant stigma. The disability resulting from delayed detection impacts not only the affected individual but also their family. To address this stigma and enhance awareness, the Sparsh Leprosy Awareness Campaign (SLAC) was launched under the National Leprosy Eradication Programme (NLEP) on 30th January 2017, coinciding with Anti-Leprosy Day. The campaign, celebrated as a fortnight event until 13th February, aims to increase awareness and reduce stigma. This study evaluates the impact of the Sparsh campaign on leprosy case detection in Tiruvallur district, Tamil Nadu, India, from 2018 to 2024.
Methods : A descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted to analyse the number of new leprosy patients detected during and one month after the Sparsh campaign. Data for February and March from 2018 to 2024 were extracted from monthly progress reports.
RESULTS : Between 2018 and 2024, 1,172 new leprosy patients were reported in Tiruvallur district, of which 223 were detected during the Sparsh campaign. Out of the 223 patients, 125 of them self-reported and 98 paucibacillary leprosy patients were detected during the campaign.
CONCLUSION : Awareness campaigns have demonstrated effectiveness in facilitating early detection of leprosy, emphasizing the importance of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) activities. We recommend targeted awareness initiatives focusing on vulnerable population and high-endemic areas to promote self-reporting and reduce delays in diagnosis.