Lymphatic Filariasis is a leading cause of Permanent disability next only to mood affecting disorder in the tropical and sub-tropical countries, affecting over 120 million people in 73 countries.

India alone contributes to about 41% of the global burden.

The economic loss to India is to the tune of US $ 840 million to US $ 1.5 billion per annum.

The visible manifestations of the disease are severe and disfiguring and there is a considerable psychological stress on the individuals and families.

To facilitate Lymphatic Filariasis Elimination - A cell has been created by ICMR (Indian Council Of Medical Research)

World Health Assembly passed a resolution (WHA-50.29, 1997) calling for "The elimination of lymphatic filariasis as a public health problem"

Last but not the least, International Task Force for Disease Eradication has declared lymphatic filariasis as eradicable and potentially eradicable disease.