Media Release
Mangaluru, Nov 27: Dr Derek A Lobo, an internationally respected public-health specialist and one of the world’s leading experts in leprosy control, passed away on Tuesday, November 25. He leaves behind an extraordinary legacy defined by compassion, discipline and an unwavering commitment to serving humanity’s most neglected communities.
Born in Attavar, Mangaluru, Dr Lobo chose a path few dared to follow—devoting more than five decades of his life to eliminating leprosy as a public-health problem and fighting the deep-rooted stigma surrounding the disease. His commitment and field expertise led to his appointment with the World Health Organization (WHO) in Bangladesh, where he played a pivotal role in helping the country achieve the elimination of leprosy as a public-health problem in 1998.
Dr Lobo later served at the WHO Regional Office for South-East Asia (SEARO) as the regional adviser for leprosy, filariasis, soil-transmitted helminths and yaws. During this period, he undertook missions across ten countries, offering expert technical guidance that significantly and often quietly, without seeking recognition contributed to the elimination of leprosy, lymphatic filariasis and yaws across the region.
In addition to his WHO service, he worked extensively with non-profit organizations including the Sasakawa India Leprosy Foundation and Emmaus International (Switzerland), strengthening programmes for early diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of affected individuals.
Dr Lobo was admired not only for his professional excellence but also for his humility, integrity and deep sense of duty. Colleagues remembered him as a disciplined leader, a brilliant thinker and a compassionate human being who treated every patient and team member with dignity and respect. Beyond the field of public health, he was a passionate coffee planter who cherished the tranquillity of nature.
In recent years, he was honoured for 55 years of service at a book-release ceremony at Father Muller Medical College, Mangaluru. The book Heroes & Heroines of 20th Century Leprosy Work in India, co-authored by him, chronicles the contributions of individuals and institutions that fought against leprosy in India. His memoir, Happy Accidents and Lucky Incidents: The Story of My Life, remains an inspiring reflection on his extraordinary life and journey.
Dr Lobo also served on the Governing Board of Father Muller Charitable Institutions and was a former president of CASK, Mangaluru.
He is survived by his wife, Patsy Lobo, along with family, friends, colleagues worldwide and the countless individuals whose lives were touched by his compassion and dedicated service.
Dr Derek Lobo’s contributions continue to resonate through the millions who benefitted from early diagnosis, treatment and restored dignity because of his life’s work. His legacy remains a powerful testament to what unwavering commitment and quiet leadership can achieve.