Sri Lanka Aims for Leprosy Elimination by 2035 Amidst New Cases

Sri Lankas Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa announces a goal to eliminate Leprosy by 2035, despite 1,500-2,000 new cases annually, during a conference in Colombo.

At the National Leprosy Conference in Colombo, Health Minister Dr. Nalinda Jayatissa revealed that Sri Lanka is aiming for leprosy elimination by 2035.
Each year, approximately 1,500-2,000 new cases of Leprosy are detected in Sri Lanka, with 10% of cases impacting children under ten years old.
The conference was held under the patronage of President Anura Kumara Dissanayake, emphasizing the ongoing public health challenge posed by leprosy.

Why It Matters

Leprosy remains a public health concern in Sri Lanka, signaling the need for continuous health initiatives and awareness, especially among vulnerable populations like children.