American Leprosy Missions

The American Leprosy Missions (ALM) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit service organization, dedicated to curing and caring for people affected by leprosy and related diseases around the world. American Leprosy Missions is working with the Infectious Disease Research Institute in Seattle to develop a vaccine against leprosy. During its more than 100-year history, American Leprosy Missions has provided holistic care to 4 million people around the world, including medical treatment and training, Christian outreach, prevention of disability, community development and vaccine research. American Leprosy Missions also fights Buruli ulcer in West Africa. Buruli ulcer, a flesh-destroying disease related to leprosy, affects mainly children under 15. Leprosy, also known as Hansen’s disease, is a progressive, chronic infectious disease caused by the bacterium, Mycobacterium leprae. The disorder affects peripheral nerves, particularly in the facial area and the limbs. In severe cases, loss of sensation, disfigurement, and/or blindness may occur.