WER: Global leprosy update, 2014: need for early case detection

Prevalence of leprosy globally decreased from >5 million cases in the mid-1980s to <200 000 by 2015 following introduction of multidrug therapy (MDT) as treatment for leprosy. Early diagnosis and complete treatment with MDT remain the key strategies for reducing disease burden due to leprosy. The dual effect of early detection of cases in breaking the chain of transmission and reduction of grade 2 disabilities (G2D cases) in a given community is high-lighted in the enhanced global leprosy strategy for further reducing the disease burden due to leprosy (2011–2015) which was adopted by national leprosy programmes and adapted to suit local conditions. The strategy includes interventions for provision of good quality leprosy services and sets a target of reduction of new G2D cases by 35%.