Hansen’s
disease, also known as Leprosy:
Worldwide, two to three million people are estimated to be permanently disabled because of leprosy.[9] India has the greatest number of cases, with Brazil second and Burma third.
In 1999, the world incidence of Hansen's disease was estimated to be 640,000. In 2000, 738,284 cases were identified. In 1999, 108 cases occurred in the United States. In 2000, the World Health Organization (WHO) listed 91 countries in which Hansen's disease is endemic. India, Myanmar and Nepal contained 70% of cases. India reports over 50% of the world's leprosy cases. In 2002, 763,917 new cases were detected worldwide, and in that year the WHO listed Brazil, Madagascar, Mozambique, Tanzania and Nepal as having 90% of Hansen's disease cases. (Wikipedia - http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leprosy)
Chloe Smith age 8 and Everest Smith age 5 learn about Leprosy treatment at the READ Nepal clinic in Kathmandu.
The
vision of H.A.N.D is to reach out and to assist Nepalis in the remote regions
of Nepal who are poor and suffer from physical and mental disabilities of all
types. Our long term vision after their immediate medical needs have been
improved is to then assist them in setting up a micro business in order to
empower the Nepali to earn an income if they are currently unemployed due to
their disability.
We are always looking for new volunteers. Please also consider a financial donation, medical supplies and frequent flyer miles. (970) 237-1660
H.A.N.D. (Helping Assist Nepal's Disabled)
315 Laurelwood Drive
