Leprosy control in a Bombay slum - A general assessment

Abstract

During the course of a medical student elective period, the author collected data from one of the largest leprosy control projects in the slums of Bombay, where the disease is hyperendemic. Particular attention was given to case-detection rates over a period of 5 years, drop-out rates, disability-deformity, stigma and socio-economic conditions. In this retrospective study, carried out during a limited period of time in one project, it seems that compliance, regularity of attendance and utilization by the patients of the excellent services offered all run at a level which is often disappointingly low. The current priority is for improved case-holding and some of the factors needed to bring this about are discussed.