In the rural districts of Bihar, India, thousands of men endure the debilitating effects of hydrocele—a condition characterised by the accumulation of fluid in the scrotum, often resulting from lymphatic filariasis (LF). LF is a parasitic disease transmitted by mosquitoes, and India accounts for approximately 40% of the global cases of LF, with Bihar being one of the most affected states.
Hydrocele affects over 27 million men worldwide. Despite its prevalence, it remains a neglected condition, leading to physical discomfort and economic hardship. Men affected by hydrocele often experience pain, reduced mobility, and impaired ability to work, which can limit household income and participation in community life.
The Hidden Cost of Limited Access to Care
In Lepra’s work across Bihar’s underserved communities, hydrocele is a common finding, affecting up to 5–7% of individuals screened in integrated disability camps. The condition not only hampers physical health but also limits productivity. Many affected men are unable to work due to the discomfort, leading to reduced earnings and challenges in supporting their families. Beyond the physical complications, hydrocele has a profound psychological impact—those affected often experience intense shame, social withdrawal, and emotional distress due to the visible nature of the condition. The stigma surrounding hydrocele can lead to isolation, low self-esteem, and reluctance to seek help, compounding the barriers to both health and livelihood.
Hope Through Surgery – A Simple, Life-Changing Solution
Hydrocele is treatable through a simple 30-minute surgical procedure known as hydrocelectomy. Studies have shown that patients who undergo this surgery report significant improvements in mobility, reduced pain, and increased capacity for daily activities.
Since 2013, Lepra, in collaboration with District Health Societies in Bihar, has facilitated over 1,500 hydrocele surgeries. Through formal agreements with local governments, Lepra supports every stage of care—from community outreach and case identification to post-operative follow-up—while public hospitals provide the surgical services.
Supporting Families and Community Health
Hydrocele impacts household stability when affected individuals are unable to engage in income-generating work or community life. Surgical treatment allows people to regain physical capacity and reintegrate fully into their economic and social roles.
Towards a Scalable Public Health Model
Thanks in part to Lepra’s sustained advocacy, the Government of Bihar has committed to providing hydrocelectomy surgeries for every individual on the waiting list in targeted districts over the coming year—backlog included—by introducing performance-based incentives for surgeons.
Beyond this immediate win, Lepra continues to champion a state-wide hydrocele management strategy in the areas where it operates. This includes comprehensive case-mapping, the mobilisation and training of community health workers, and the integration of hydrocele treatment into routine public health services. By combining clinical care with grassroots mobilisation and system-level planning, Lepra’s approach offers a scalable blueprint for LF-endemic states across India to eliminate disability and restore dignity for thousands of affected men.
This Men’s Health Week, Let’s Talk About Hydrocele
Hydrocele is a daily health challenge for many men. With straightforward surgical interventions, targeted community outreach, and strong health system partnerships, we can ensure individuals receive the care they need to stay healthy and economically active.
Hear Lepra Society's State Coordinator, Rajni Kant Singh speaks about his own personal experiences with hydrocele -
The persistent discomfort of Hydrocele left Arjun unable to work but a simple operation turned his life around. Read Arjun's real-life story.
