What is Hansen's Disease?

Hansen's Disease is another term for leprosy. Both terms refer to the same disease. The term "Hansen's Disease" is used to reduce the stigma in some countries, where the term "leprosy" has a particularly negative meaning. The term honours the physician who identified the disease's causative agent. Both "leprosy" and "Hansen's Disease" are acceptable terms, although some persons affected by the disease may prefer to self-identify as a "person affected by Hansen's Disease."

The Origin of the Term "Hansen's Disease"

The designation "Hansen's disease" pays tribute to Dr Gerhard Armauer Hansen, a Norwegian physician who, in 1873, discovered Mycobacterium leprae, the bacterium responsible for leprosy.

This ground-breaking discovery was pivotal in transforming the understanding of the disease from a hereditary affliction to an infectious one. By associating the disease with Dr Hansen's name, the medical community aimed to shift public perception and reduce the negative connotations linked to leprosy.

Who Was Gerhard Armauer Hansen?

Born on July 29, 1841, in Bergen, Norway, Dr Gerhard Henrik Armauer Hansen was a pioneering physician and researcher. After completing his medical education at the University of Christiania (now the University of Oslo), he dedicated himself to studying leprosy, which was prevalent in Norway during the 19th century.

In 1868, Hansen began working at the Lungegaard Hospital in Bergen under the mentorship of Dr Daniel Cornelius Danielssen, a leading expert on leprosy. Through meticulous examination of tissue samples from patients, Hansen identified rod-shaped bodies in the cells, which he later confirmed as the bacteria Mycobacterium leprae. This discovery marked the first identification of a bacterium as the cause of a human disease.

Despite facing challenges, including disputes over the discovery and ethical controversies surrounding his research methods, Hansen's work laid the foundation for modern leprosy research and treatment. He continued his efforts to combat the disease until his death on February 12, 1912.

The Adoption of "Hansen's Disease" to Reduce Stigma

The term "leprosy" has historically been associated with severe social stigma, often leading to the ostracisation of those affected. To combat this prejudice, some health organisations and countries have adopted the term "Hansen's disease." This change aims to emphasise the medical nature of the condition and dissociate it from historical misconceptions and discrimination.

In Brazil, for instance, the term "hanseníase" has been officially used since 1995 to replace "lepra." This initiative was part of a broader effort to reduce stigma and promote better integration of individuals affected by the disease into society. The Brazilian government's commitment to this change reflects a significant step toward addressing the social challenges posed by the disease.

In some countries, the term "leprosy" is still used commonly and the word itself does not cause stigma.

Hansen's Disease in Brazil: A Case Study

Brazil has been at the forefront of efforts to destigmatise leprosy. The country's adoption of the term "hanseníase" is more than a mere rebranding; it represents a comprehensive public health strategy. By eliminating the use of "lepra" in official documents and public discourse, Brazil aims to change public perception and encourage those affected to seek diagnosis and treatment without fear of discrimination.

This policy change was accompanied by extensive public education campaigns, healthcare professional training, and legal measures to protect the rights of individuals with Hansen's Disease. These efforts have contributed to increased awareness, early detection, and a reduction in the prevalence of the disease.