World Leprosy Day

World Leprosy Dayis observed internationally on January 31 or its nearest Sunday to increase the public awareness of theLeprosyor Hansen's Disease. This day was chosen in commemoration of the death of Gandhi, the leader of India who understood the importance of leprosy. Leprosy is one of the oldest recordeddiseasesin the world. It is an infectious chronic disease that targets thenervous system, especially the nerves in the cooler parts of the body - the hands, feet, and face.