Sheer hard work and absolute commitment of individuals associated with the efforts managed to achieve the first objective of controlling the disease in the country in 1996.
Leprosy prevalence has declined to less than one active case in 10,000 population, the danger threshold below which, the diseases cease to be a public health problem, MALC sources maintained.
They, however, reminded that although Leprosy in Pakistan has been controlled and victory over Leprosy bacillus achieved the disease itself is still inflicting long term psychological, physical and social suffering on the former patients.
The leprosy disease has not yet been conquered, not until the patients' life is normalised. To reach this elimination goal will require hard work during next two decades and longer, sources elaborated.
For the very purpose, a multi-pronged approach is being adopted attending medical as well as the social problems of the patients, living in abject poverty and isolation.