INTERNATIONAL DAYGENERAL

World Leprosy Day

Every year on January 31, the world remembers a disease the world would rather forget. World Leprosy Day honors the dignity of people affected by leprosy, an ancient disease that is curable yet still wrapped in stigma. It is a day to replace myths with facts, and fear with compassion.

JAN31

Sunday, January 31Last Sunday in January

days to go

Roots: Established in 1954 by French journalist and humanitarian Raoul Follereau, who chose the date as a tribute to Mahatma Gandhi.
Hashtag: #WorldLeprosyDay

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3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Learn the facts

Read up on Hansen's disease: it is curable, and early treatment prevents disability; then share what you learned with one person.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Challenge the stigma

When you hear myths about leprosy, gently correct them; people affected deserve dignity and inclusion, not isolation.

WITH FRIENDS

Support the cause

Learn about organizations fighting leprosy and consider supporting their treatment and outreach efforts.

Plan ahead

World Leprosy Day is observed on the last Sunday in January. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Sun, Jan 25this year

2027Sun, Jan 31

2028Sun, Jan 30

2029Sun, Jan 28

2030Sun, Jan 27

2031Sun, Jan 26

2032Sun, Jan 25

2033Sun, Jan 30

2034Sun, Jan 29

2035Sun, Jan 28

2036Sun, Jan 27

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Fast facts

More than 16 millionLeprosy patients have been treated with WHO-provided multidrug therapy over the past 20 years; leprosy was eliminated as a public health problem globally in 2000.

Learn the facts about Hansen's disease and share them, because understanding is what ends stigma.