Leprosy and Health in Bihar, India

India is one of the countries most affected by leprosy, with the state of Bihar among the hardest hit. Leprosy is a lowly contagious disease that spreads predominantly in underdeveloped areas, where limited hygiene, inadequate sanitation, and low levels of education create conditions for its persistence.

The Damien Foundation India Trust (DFIT) is a leading organization working to control leprosy in the country. Its efforts include treatment hospitals and specialized reconstructive surgery facilities, such as the one in Dehri-on-Sone, providing care for those affected and helping restore mobility and dignity.

In addition to leprosy, DFIT supports tuberculosis control in collaboration with local health authorities, addressing the broader challenges of public health in vulnerable communities.

Through their work, DFIT combines medical intervention with social support, illustrating how healthcare initiatives can transform the lives of individuals and families living under difficult conditions.