ILEP seeks to stimulate support to relevant scientific research including for the development of tools for diagnosis, treatment and prevention of disabilities and rehabilitation.

The ILEP Technical Commission regularly reviews the ILEP information system on scientific research including basic, applied and operational aspects, and identifies research priorities. It provides a regular update on evidence-based and best practice approaches in leprosy management, and promotes increased capacity for research as well as advising on current research studies.

The WHO Global Strategy for Further Reducing the Leprosy Burden and Sustaining Leprosy Control Activities (2006-2010) published in 2005 highlighted four key research priorities as follows:

  • Prevention and management of nerve function impairment and reactions
  • Improved Chemotherapy
  • Developing and improving of diagnostics to identify individuals at high risk of developing leprosy
  • Operational Research to improve sustainability and integration of leprosy services

This remains the most recent, authoritative statement on research priorities in leprosy.