Leprosy is an ancient disease that still thrives in the shadows of poverty and ignorance all around the world.

The weight of the stigma and rejection that patients suffer, seems to do far more damage to them than the physical effects of the disease itself; in spite of its debilitating nature.

The mission to create a Zero Leprosy world is almost within reach. Novartis Foundation committed to the cause over 30 years ago.

These images are from Ifakara, Tanzania.