Novartis Foundation commemorates World Leprosy Day with its continued efforts to go the last mile toward elimination

Novartis Foundation Basel, January 31, 2016 – On World Leprosy Day 2016, the Novartis Foundation calls for a greater global commitment to the fight against leprosy to support efforts towards zero transmission of the disease and to reduce stigma. The Novartis Foundation continues to work with partners around the world on early detection and treatment of leprosy, proactive surveillance, the development of diagnostic tools, and contact tracing with preventative treatment.

“The dream of the Novartis Foundation is that we see the day when the number of people newly diagnosed with leprosy – especially children – is zero,” said Dr. Ann Aerts, Head of the Novartis Foundation. “Though we have seen a large reduction in the prevalence of the disease in the last 30 years, we cannot stop now. The last mile to eliminate leprosy will be tough, and to succeed we need greater awareness, more resources, and innovation. It is important for leprosy to be put back on the global health agenda to make this happen.”

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