Factors affecting perceived stigma in leprosy affected persons in western Nepal

Area of Science:

• Medical Sociology
• Public Health
• Epidemiology

Background:

• Stigma associated with leprosy significantly impacts affected individuals and the general population.
• Understanding the factors contributing to perceived stigma is crucial for targeted interventions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To determine the level of perceived stigma among leprosy-affected individuals.
• To identify risk factors associated with perceived stigma in leprosy patients.

Main Methods:

• A cross-sectional study involving 135 leprosy-affected individuals aged 18+ was conducted.
• Data was collected using questionnaires and the Explanatory Model Interview Catalogue (EMIC).
• Focused group discussions were employed to further explore EMIC findings.

Main Results:

• Higher perceived stigma scores were associated with illiteracy, inadequate income, and occupation changes due to leprosy.
• Lack of knowledge regarding leprosy's causes, transmission, and perception of severity/treatment difficulty correlated with increased stigma.
• Visible physical manifestations such as deformities, ulcers, and odorous ulcers were linked to higher stigma scores.

Conclusions:

• Illiteracy, economic inadequacy, lack of leprosy knowledge, and perceived disease severity are key factors driving stigma.
• Visible deformities and ulcers significantly contribute to the stigma experienced by leprosy patients.
• Urgent implementation of health education, awareness programs, and rehabilitation support is necessary to reduce leprosy stigma.