On World Leprosy Day, IADVL (Indian Association of Dermatologists Venereologists & Leprologists) the country’s premier institute of Dermatologists announced the inauguration of its 48th Annual National Conference DERMACON 2020 in Pune.
The 4-day conference beginning from 30th January 2020 to 2nd February 2020, will witness doctors and the medical fraternity addressing Derma led grave diseases like Leprosy, In 2005 WHO had declared that India is fully eradicated of leprosy, but shockingly with 66% of the cases prevailing in India, sadly our country is the capital of Leprosy. With the aim to eliminate the disease, IADVL is working towards many initiatives and one of the key focus is on educating the society.
During today’s discussions it was revealed that in Maharashtra itself there are Sixteen thousand new cases reported every year out of which 4500 cases are from Nagpur itself. The active districts where leprosy is widespread are Thane, Raigad, Vidharbh and Palghar, there are cases reported because of the tribal belt. The resurgence was reported first in UP in 2012 with 20000 new cases followed by Bihar with 18000 new cases every year.
During the inauguration of DERMACON 2020, Dr. P Narasimha Rao, IADVL President said“It is time we face the harsh reality that Leprosy is coming back, and it can be tackled only by collaborative efforts. To make India truly Leprosy Free – we all need to have a correct understanding of leprosy and compassion toward those with the disease. It is only then that Leprosy patients will seek treatment and will be able to live with respect in the society. Leprosy is not a disease of the past, it is still an ongoing issue therefore, on World Leprosy Day 30th January 2020, we at IADVL pledge to work towards Mission Leprosy Free India”.
- Dr. Kiran Godse, President Elect (IADVL) reiterated the fact that “There is a lot ofstigma and isolation which is associated with leprosy which is very harsh for the patients and their families have to endure it. 2. “Despite the fact that early diagnosis is 100% curable and prevents further deformity and spread of the disease, Even after their recovery they are still termed as ‘ex-leprosy patients’ and are looked down upon, said Dr. Anil Patki, Leprosy Specialist Pune” 3. Dr. Narendra G Patwardhan, Organizing Chairman (DERMACON 2020) addressed the abuse of steroid based medicines. 4. Dr. Dhanashree Bhide, Scientific Chairman (DERMACON 2020) further added that The widespread misuse of skin creams and lotions that contain steroids in India is harmful and out of control 5. Dr. Pradyumna Vaidya, Organizing Secretary (DERMACON 2020) spoke about developed countries where topical corticosteroids are available strictly by prescription and sale thru any other medium is restricted.
Medwiz Healthcare Communications has partnered to execute patient initiatives, patient charters, social media outreach and unique Global peer to peer real world evidence discussions in Derma TV studios.
