Leprosy, A social disease
Leprosy , also known as Hansen's disease , is a chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium leprae. It primarily affects the skin, nerves, and mucous membranes of the upper respiratory tract. Despite being curable and having a low transmission rate, leprosy is still considered a social disease due to the stigmatization and discrimination faced by those who suffer from it. A man with leprosy Leprosy has a long history of being feared and misunderstood. In the past, it was thought to be a punishment from the gods or a hereditary disease. People with leprosy were often ostracized and forced to live in isolated colonies, known as leper colonies, where they had limited access to medical care, education, and other basic needs. These colonies were often located in remote areas and had poor living conditions, leading to further social and economic marginalization of people with leprosy...