Effectiveness of Sensitization Campaigns in Reducing Leprosy-Related Stigma in Rural Togo: Protocol for a Mixed...

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Tropical Medicine
• Health Communication

Background:

• Leprosy elimination requires early case detection, hindered by poor knowledge and stigma.
• Community sensitization campaigns are vital but their effectiveness in West Africa is understudied.
• Low health literacy and multilingualism in rural settings pose challenges for sensitization.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the impact of sensitization campaigns on leprosy knowledge and stigma.
• To evaluate novel audio tools for overcoming language and literacy barriers.
• To inform public health policy for leprosy control in diverse communities.

Main Methods:

• Cluster randomized controlled trial in 60 rural communities in Togo.
• Intervention arms: sensitization campaign alone, or campaign with audio tools.
• Control arm: no intervention. Quantitative (surveys) and qualitative (interviews) data collected.

Main Results:

• Protocol for a mixed-methods cluster randomized controlled trial described.
• Data collection completion expected June 2024; analysis ongoing.
• First results anticipated by end of 2024.

Conclusions:

• This trial is among the first to test causal effectiveness of sensitization and audio tools for leprosy knowledge and stigma reduction.
• Findings will inform policymakers and practitioners on designing effective campaigns in rural, multilingual areas.
• Evidence generated will support global leprosy elimination strategies.