Bhubaneswar, Feb. 11: A SPARSH Leprosy Awareness Program, part of a nationwide initiative to create consciousness about the disease, was organised by the Institute of Medical Sciences and SUM Hospital at the Urban Health and Training Centre (UHTC) here on Tuesday.

The program aimed to promote community awareness, sensitisation about early detection of leprosy and stigma reduction related to the disease.

The program was graced by Dr. Rajendra Malik, Additional Director (Leprosy) in the state health department, and Dr. Pushparaj Samantasinghar, Medical Superintendent, of IMSSH.

Members of the faculty, Dr E. Venkata Rao, Dr Sambedana Mohanty, Dr Smriti Madhusikta and Dr. Subhashree Samantaray, along with postgraduate trainees from the Department of Community Medicine and Infectious Diseases attended the event.

The dignitaries addressed the gathering and emphasized the importance of early identification of symptoms. They informed the people about free availability of treatment. They also emphasised on the need to eliminate the social stigma associated with the disease.

As part of the awareness activities, medical interns presented the objectives and key messages of the SPARSH Leprosy Awareness Campaign through display of informative posters and an engaging play. This was followed by a second play enacted by the nursing staff to highlight the signs and symptoms of leprosy and the importance of timely treatment.

Community members who attended the event appreciated the informative and interactive format of the program organised under the leadership of Dr. Sumitra Patnaik and the intern coordinator, Dr Mahima Panigrahi. The event reinforced the message that leprosy is curable, treatment is available free of cost at government health facilities and early reporting can prevent disability.

The program concluded with a call for community participation in identifying suspected cases and supporting persons affected by leprosy without discrimination.