Integrating community engagement in zero leprosy efforts: a pathway to sustainable early detection, control and elimination

Community engagement has emerged as a critical component in the effective control and elimination of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs), particularly in regions with persistent stigma and limited healthcare access. Drawing on case studies from Brazil, India, and Nigeria, this opinion piece explores how community-driven initiatives have successfully improved leprosy awareness, reduced stigma, and fostered early case detection and treatment adherence. The importance of culturally sensitive, inclusive approaches in health education and stigma reduction campaigns is highlighted, emphasizing the potential for community engagement to enhance national leprosy programs and contribute to the World Health Organization’s Zero Leprosy Strategy. By examining these examples, this article illustrates how integrating community participation into leprosy control and elimination programs can drive sustainable outcomes for achieving Zero Leprosy, even in resource-limited settings.