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International Association for Integration, Dignity & Economic Advancement

IDEA connects people around the world who have experienced Hansen's disease and other neglected Tropical Diseases to empower each other, to ensure human rights and to promote inclusion.

Your gift helps restore dignity and amplify the voices of people affected by leprosy and other neglected diseases.

If you’ve experienced or witnessed a human rights violation, we’re here to listen — please share your concern below.

We’d love to hear from you — reach out with any questions, ideas, or feedback.

What is IDEA International?

IDEA, The International Association for Integration, Dignity and Economic Advancement, promotes the equal participation, human rights and dignity of persons around the world who have experienced a neglected tropical disease. Through local and global forums, individuals share ideas and experiences, identify challenges, and advocate for change–all of which guide IDEA’s vision.

IDEA defines its four areas of expertise as: advocacy, empowerment, leadership, and heritage and education. Programs vary from country to country, depending on the locally identified needs and expertise of leaders within a country. IDEA is an NGO in Special Consultative Status with the Economic and Social Council of the United Nations.

What is Hansen's disease?

Hansen’s disease, also called leprosy in many countries is a chronic, infectious disease caused by the bacterium, Mycobacterium Leprae. The disease primarily affects the nerves, skin, upper airways, and eyes.

Can it be cured?

Yes. The current treatment is known as multi-drug therapy (MDT). It consists of a combination of three antibiotics—dapsone, rifampin, and clofazimine. Millions of individuals have been cured with MDT, which has been offered free of charge through the World Health Organization since 1995. No isolation is necessary during treatment.

How is it spread?

The exact means of transmission is not known, but the disease is thought to be spread via droplets from the nose and mouth, through direct contact with an untreated person over a prolonged period of time.

Is it hereditary?

No. However, susceptibility to the disease may be inherited. Only about five percent of the world's population is susceptible to Hansen's disease, so very few persons exposed to the disease contract it.

How many people are diagnosed each year and where is it found?

The most recent available statistics from WHO show that 210,671 people from 150 countries were diagnosed in 2017. The disease is primarily found in India, Brazil, and Indonesia. About 175 people are diagnosed in the United States annually.

Are there long-term physical effects associated with the disease?

Individuals who are diagnosed early and take their medication, will generally be able to prevent nerve loss and related disabilities associated with the disease.

IDEA Testimonials

"Although the situations in which we live are often very different from country to country, I have learned that there is an instant feeling of sharing and understanding among us when we meet, and this is the strength of IDEA."

Yasuji Hirasawa

IDEA Japan

"We can make a difference in this ever-changing world. We possess the ability to think and do for ourselves. As a team, we can challenge and change."

José Ramirez, Jr.

IDEA USA

"IDEA is our common plate. We may be poor in economic status, but I am thankful to IDEA because it helped many of us stand and speak about ourselves... We can knock at the door of the government. We are citizens of our nations."

Amar Timilsina

IDEA Nepal