World Leprosy Day Last sunday of january is observed as world leprosy day. In India it is observed on 30th january on the death anniversary of Mahatma Gandhi who worked tirelessly to help leprosy patients. It is important to understand the nature of disease, its progression and treatment. Leprosy is caused by very slow growing bacteria, mycobacterium leprae. Patients present with pale patches with numbness on fingers and toes. It is important to identify the skin lesions and nerve involvement to prevent disabilities and disfigurement. only types of leprosy with high bacillary load is infectious. Most of us have adequate immunity so we dont contract the disease even if exposed. Those with poor immunity are likely to develop the disease. leprosy can effectively treated if treatment is started at early stages. duration if treatment is 6months to one year.