In commemoration of World Leprosy Day, let’s take a moment to confront centuries of fear with truth. Despite common myths, leprosy is not inherited and is not easily transmitted, but close and prolonged contact without treatment is usually required. Yet the real tragedy isn’t the disease itself; it’s the stigma that continues to shatter lives long after treatment is available. Around 200,000 new cases are reported each year globally, but with free multidrug therapy available worldwide, we have the tools to cure every single one. CFI forwards a legacy born from what was once called "the largest leprosy colony in the Far East, catering to about 50,000 patients since 1906." Established in 1976, the Foundation, through the leadership of the Department of Health and in collaboration with the World Health Organization and the private sector, achieved its vision to eliminate leprosy as a public health problem in Culion in 1999, following the country’s declaration in 1998.
Today, our work proves that leprosy isn’t the enemy, but ignorance and discrimination are. Let’s honor those who’ve endured isolation by choosing compassion over fear, knowledge over myth, and dignity for all.
#WorldLeprosyDay #EndTheStigma #CFI50
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