Abstract

Background: Leprosy or Hansen’s disease is a chronic disease caused by bacterium Mycobacterium leprae presenting as hypopigmented patches and diminished sensation. It continues to remain a major public health problem due to the stigma attached to this disease.

Objectives: The objectives of the study were as follows: (1) To study the incidence and type of leprosy cases in Andaman and Nicobar Islands and (2) to analyze patients who develop deformity due to leprosy.

Materials and Methods: Retrospective data mining from the leprosy records maintained by Leprosy Department collected from 35 primary and community health centers existing across Andaman and Nicobar Islands from April 2014 to March 2018.

Results: A total number of leprosy cases reported were 101, of which a total number of paucibacillary cases were 23 (22.77%) and multibacillary cases were 78 (77.23%). A total number of childhood cases were 6 (5.94%), female cases were 27 (26.73%) and male cases were 68 (67.32%). Deformity was seen among 11 patients (10.89%).

Conclusion: Leprosy cases have been increasing in the islands affecting more of adult males. Multibacillary cases are being predominantly more than paucibacillary. The main challenge is to eliminate the social stigma through effective information, education, and communication and promote voluntary reporting.

Key words: Leprosy; Andaman and Nicobar Islands; Incidence