The rural population, living in the proximity of industrial estates, was also exposed to various types of STDs and skin diseases, Shah said, adding that basic information about family planning and safe sex would be disseminated among them.

According to Shah, who heads the health departments of Vadodara, Bharuch, Panchmahals and Dahod, more than 10,000 workers would visit earmarked villages, located around the industrial estates, in the districts and spread awareness among the residents about the same.

Those found suffering from the diseases would be counselled and examined at the public health centres and the community health centres of the four districts. Special teams of expert doctors will also visit the PHCs and CHCs on December 4, 11 and 18 to examine the patients and finalise their long-term treatment for them.

``However, I have also asked the workers to keep an eye on other diseases in general and leperosy in particular while carrying out the drive,'', Shah added.