The link between leprosy and climate-change that we did not know about

When Sharadindu Ghosh* was young, he was taught not to speak about his father’s leprosy. He, like many others, grew up in the lanes of Jamuria Leprosy Colony, in West Bengal, facing stigma and discrimination.

Today, years after his father’s passing and an endless struggle through poverty, Ghosh is an electrical supervisor and a mentor to local children.

“Among the uneducated population in India, people believe that this disease is given by God,” said Mervyn Basil, communications specialist at NGO Until No Leprosy Remains-India (NLR-India).

Leprosy was eliminated as a public health problem in India as per the World Health Organization’s criteria of less than 1 case per 10,000 population, at the national level, in 2005.

However now, experts say, it is quietly resurfacing, particularly in climate stressed States including West Bengal and Bihar.

Floods, displacement and overcrowding have become frequent, leading to these States seeing the disease re-emerge in pockets.

India is hailed for eliminating leprosy two decades ago, but modern effects of climate stress and poverty may lead to its reappearance.

Climate change impacts leprosy through various mechanisms, primarily by exacerbating poverty, disrupting livelihoods, and altering environmental conditions. This can lead to increased vulnerability for people with leprosy-related disabilities, particularly in areas already struggling with malnutrition and food shortages. Additionally, climate change can indirectly influence leprosy transmission by impacting mosquito and tick populations, potentially increasing the spread of other diseases in affected areas.

Here’s a more detailed look at the connections:

1. Exacerbated Poverty and Vulnerability:

Disrupted Livelihoods:

Climate change events like floods, droughts, and cyclones can destroy homes, livelihoods (e.g., farming, fishing), and support systems, leaving people more vulnerable to malnutrition, disease, and disability.

Increased Displacement:

Climate-induced migration can lead to overcrowding and increased risk of disease transmission, especially for communities already facing challenges with leprosy.

Reduced Access to Healthcare:

Climate change can disrupt healthcare systems, making it harder for people with leprosy to access timely treatment and care.

2. Indirect Impacts on Leprosy Transmission:

Environmental Changes:

Climate change can alter natural cycles and processes that impact the spread of leprosy and other infectious diseases. For example, weakening monsoon winds can affect fishing communities and their livelihoods, potentially leading to increased poverty and disease outbreaks.

Vector-Borne Diseases:

While leprosy isn’t directly transmitted by insects like malaria or dengue, climate change can impact mosquito and tick populations, increasing the risk of other infectious diseases that can further burden already vulnerable communities.

3. Specific Examples and Case Studies:

India:

While India has been successful in eliminating leprosy, climate stress and poverty may lead to its resurgence in pockets.

Sri Lanka:

A coastal community in Sri Lanka experienced a rise in leprosy cases after a fishing industry crash due to climate change, leading to migration and exposure to the disease.

Mozambique:

The coastal province of Cabo Delgado, which is both poor and has a high prevalence of leprosy, is increasingly drought-prone and was hit by Cyclone Idai, highlighting the disproportionate impact of climate change on vulnerable communities.

Bangladesh:

River flooding in Northwest Bangladesh affected 4,000 leprosy-affected farmers, destroying crops and livestock.

4. The Need for Integrated Action:

Climate Change Adaptation:

Addressing the impacts of climate change on vulnerable communities, including those affected by leprosy, requires a holistic approach that considers their specific needs and vulnerabilities.

Social and Economic Support:

Providing social protection, livelihood support, and healthcare services to these communities can help them cope with the effects of climate change and reduce the risk of disease outbreaks.

Community Empowerment:

Empowering communities to adapt to climate change and manage their health resources is crucial for long-term sustainability.