Translation guide
Hansen's disease (leprosy) is a chronic infectious disease. In Japanese, the medical term is ハンセン病, but historical and social context is important because the older term 癩病 is now considered discriminatory.
Referring to the disease in a clinical or modern context
The standard medical term for Hansen's disease. This is the neutral, non-discriminatory term used in healthcare and official contexts.
Hansen's disease can be cured with early treatment.
An older term for leprosy. Now considered discriminatory and outdated. Avoid using this term; it is included here only for recognition in historical contexts.
This term is stigmatizing and should not be used in modern conversation or writing.
The disease once called 'rai-byō' is now called Hansen's disease.
Discussing the history of the disease, discrimination, or sanatoriums
Even in historical discussions, the modern term is preferred. Use this when talking about past policies or patients.
The history of Hansen's disease is filled with discrimination and prejudice.
Refers to sanatoriums for Hansen's disease patients. Many such facilities existed in Japan under past isolation policies.
Refers to the social issue surrounding Hansen's disease, including past discrimination and compensation.
Referring to a person with Hansen's disease
Standard term for a patient with Hansen's disease. Neutral and appropriate.
We need to eliminate prejudice against Hansen's disease patients.
Term for a person who has recovered from Hansen's disease. Emphasizes recovery rather than ongoing illness.
Literally 'former Hansen's disease patient'. Used in some contexts, but '回復者' is often preferred.
The term 癩病 (らいびょう) is highly stigmatizing and should never be used. Always use ハンセン病 in modern contexts. Even in historical discussions, it is better to use ハンセン病 or clarify that the old term is being mentioned for historical accuracy.
The word 'rai-byō' is a discriminatory term.
The disease name is written in katakana as ハンセン病, following the pattern of many medical terms derived from foreign names. The kanji 病 (disease) is often appended.
National Hansen's disease sanatoriums still exist today.
The Hansen's disease issue is one of Japan's human rights challenges.
Support the social reintegration of Hansen's disease survivors.
A meeting to hear the experiences of former Hansen's disease patients.