The Ministry of Health, Wellness and Nutrition has moved to clear lingering misconceptions surrounding leprosy, stressing that the disease is curable and that stigma remains the greatest obstacle to its elimination.
In a statement issued ahead of World Leprosy Day (observed on January 25), the Ministry said modern medicine has transformed leprosy from a once-feared illness into a fully treatable condition. Treatment is free, effective, and available through dermatology clinics at wellness centres across Saint Lucia.
World Leprosy Day 2026 is being observed under the theme “Leprosy is Curable; the Real Challenge is Stigma.” Health officials say while medical progress has been significant, misinformation continues to fuel fear, silence, and social isolation for those affected.
Leprosy is a chronic condition that can affect the skin, nerves, eyes, and upper respiratory tract. The Ministry emphasised that early diagnosis and proper treatment prevent long-term disability, allowing individuals to live normal lives.
Despite this, stigma persists due to false beliefs that leprosy is highly contagious, incurable, or linked to curses or sin. The Ministry noted that such views often discourage people from seeking care and create lasting emotional harm even after treatment is completed.
The Ministry is urging the public to share accurate information, show compassion, and support those affected. Residents are also encouraged to seek medical advice if they notice symptoms like pale patches of skin with reduced sensation, lumps on the body, or repeated burns and ulcers on the hands and feet.
Health officials further noted that preventive treatment is available for close contacts of affected individuals at no cost.
The ministry says eliminating leprosy in Saint Lucia is achievable, but ending stigma requires collective action. It maintains that no one should be judged or excluded because of a disease that is both preventable and curable.
