Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru/Udupi 

Mangaluru/Udupi, Feb 24: A total of 439 leprosy cases have been reported across Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts in the last six years, raising health concerns in the region. Alarmingly, 363 of these cases have reached the multibacillary (MB) or second stage of the disease.

Leprosy is classified into different stages based on severity. The paucibacillary (PB) or first stage is identified when there are one to five skin patches and only one nerve is affected. The multibacillary (MB) or second stage is characterized by more than six skin patches and the involvement of more than one nerve. Health data indicates that the coastal region is seeing a high prevalence of these second-stage cases.

District-wise breakdown

In Dakshina Kannada, out of 295 total cases reported over the period, 264 are in the multibacillary stage. In Udupi district, out of 144 total cases, 99 have reached the second stage.

Health officials have noted that the progression of the disease to more serious stages is often due to initial negligence. Patients frequently ignore the appearance of white or copper-coloured patches on the body, leading to more severe complications before seeking medical help.

Medical experts emphasize that early detection is key to preventing the spread and ensuring effective treatment. Residents are urged not to ignore any unusual skin discolouration and to consult health authorities immediately to prevent the disease from advancing to a critical state.