Advocacy Updates Bihar Region

Active case-finding in leprosy has been practised for many decades. Different methods have gone in and out of favour with overall enthusiasm to commit resources to routine case-finding activities varying over time. Reliance on voluntary self-presenting to health services through passive case detection alone has proved insufficient, leading to the development of Lepra’s combined active case-finding approach. Lepra hopes the development of a simple, yet effective education tool will support the impact and reach of leprosy case detection campaigns.

Improving early case detection through targeted interventions is now a major focus of attention in the world of leprosy (WHO – Road Map for NTDs, 2021–2030). Lepra has developed interpersonal health education cards to use as awareness tools for the early detection of leprosy symptoms, advancing our objectives to increase health-seeking behaviour amongst leprosy affected communities. The cards are small, portable tools that contain key information on identifying leprosy symptoms. The newly developed IPC tool can be utilised for Lepra’s active case-finding activities, as well as a resource for broader health education and awareness within the community. 

LEPRA Society has piloted the IPC tool in one of our projects (ASPIRE) and demonstrated its potential. This IPC tool can be utilised for both active and passive case-finding. For example, the cards have been displayed within villages, schools, prisoner housing and factories, proving effective in the following ways:

• Awareness and Community Education: IEC/IPC cards are designed with simple visuals and messages to help Accredited Social Health Actvitists (ASHAs) explain leprosy symptoms to community members in a culturally appropriate way.
• Early Detection: By showing these cards during household visits, ASHAs can help families recognise early signs such as skin patches, numbness, or disabilities
• Standardised Communication: The cards ensure that all ASHAs delivered uniform, accurate information, reducing misinformation and stigma.
• Community Engagement: IPC cards encourage dialogue, allowing villagers to ask questions and clarify doubts about leprosy.
• Trust Building: Visual aids make explanations more convincing, especially in rural areas where literacy levels are low.

Impact on Early Case Identification

• Door-to-Door Screening: ASHAs use the cards during household surveys to identify suspected cases.
• Referral Support: Suspected cases identified through IPC cards are referred to primary health care centres/community health centres for confirmation and treatment.