LEPROSY has become a treatable disease. However, if patients are left unchecked and the disease worsens, there is always a risk of blindness, weakness, nerve necrosis in the limbs, and loss of mobility, Senator Dr R.A. Lingeshwaran said.
He said Penang currently has 13 active leprosy cases and has urged all of them to focus on uninterrupted intensive treatment for about six to 18 months.
Before assuming the role of a senator, Dr Lingeshwaran was the Sungai Bakap Hospital director.
“If individuals experience abnormal red spots or erythema on their skin, they can visit government hospitals for an examination at a cost of RM88,” he said after attending the Malaysian Leprosy Relief Association (MaLRA) Raya Open House at the Caring Society Complex in Jalan Utama on April 28.
State Youth, Sports and Health Committee chairman Daniel Gooi Zi Sen, who was also present, expressed concerns about the rise of leprosy cases in Malaysia from 183 cases in 2022 to 256 new cases in 2024.
“The rise was attributed to increased on-site targeted case testing.
“As recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO), the goal is to achieve zero local cases of leprosy by 2030.
“Early detection and treatment are critical to controlling the spread of leprosy and preventing complications and permanent disability,” Gooi said in his speech.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix courtesy of YB Daniel Gooi’s office