Workshop on Leprosy Awareness in Observance of World Leprosy Day

The Department of Dermal Sciences organized a comprehensive workshop on leprosy, in observance of World Leprosy Day, for the students of MBBS, Dermal Sciences, and nursing professionals. The workshop aimed to enhance participants’ understanding of the clinical presentations, diagnosis, and management of leprosy, aligning with Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3 and 4, which focus on ensuring healthy lives and promoting quality education.

The session featured Dr Chris Schmotzer, a renowned German physician and humanitarian with over 35 years of experience in treating leprosy, tuberculosis, and skin diseases in Pakistan. Dr Schmotzer shared her extensive expertise, offering valuable insights into the early signs and symptoms of leprosy, differential diagnosis, and long-term complications, including deformities associated with the disease. Participants actively engaged in real-life case scenarios, practicing patient consultations and examination techniques essential for diagnosing leprosy.

Dr Schmotzer also conducted a hands-on training session, demonstrating ulcer care, wound dressing, and physiotherapy techniques, followed by practical exercises on using assistive devices for leprosy patients.

The workshop successfully met its objectives by equipping attendees with:

• Enhanced knowledge on leprosy diagnosis, treatment, and management.
• Practical skills in patient examination and assistive device usage.
• Increased awareness about the importance of early detection and prevention of disabilities.

The event concluded with a shield presentation ceremony, where Prof Dr Muhammad Akram Malik, Principal, UMDC, and Dr Shirza Nadeem, Vice Principal, UMDC, honored Dr Chris Schmotzer with a token of appreciation for her outstanding contributions to dermatology and humanitarian work. The workshop proved to be a significant learning experience, reinforcing the commitment of TUF’s Department of Dermatology to medical education and public health awareness.