The Causes and Effects of Leprosy-Related Discrimination at Zenebework, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
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Date
2024-06-01
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
Abstract
Leprosy remains a significant public health challenge in Ethiopia due to pervasive stigma and discrimination against those affected. The problem of misunderstanding the root causes of leprosy has contributed to the widespread marginalization of individuals with the disease. The purpose of this study was to explore the socio-cultural factors fueling leprosy-related stigma and discrimination in Zenebework, Addis Ababa in order to inform interventions to promote social inclusion. A qualitative ethnographic research approach was utilized, involving interviews, focus groups and case studies with leprosy-affected individuals, community members, and healthcare workers in Zenebework area. Data was analyzed using thematic analysis.
The study found that among the focus group discussion participants in Zenebework, there were differing understandings expressed regarding the causes and transmission of leprosy. While some biomedical explanations were provided, traditional beliefs surrounding inheritance and supernatural causation were also commonly referenced. Participants affected by leprosy described facing lifelong stigma in their community due in part to these alternative community-held perspectives. The lack of consensus around the disease's origins according to both biomedical and indigenous epidemiological frameworks contributed to a lack of awareness that impacted individuals' social, economic and psychological well-being. Besides, relationships with family, neighbors and friends were described as strained at times due to fears of contagion or views of inherited bad luck according to emic accounts. Further, socio-cultural factors shaping understandings of disease causation and transmission in this community included longstanding religious interpretations linking illness to moral failings or curses. Historical institutionalization practices that segregated those with visible signs of leprosy also influenced spatial expression of stigma. Alternative indigenous nosologies focusing on ancestral sin or airborne miasmas co-existed with biomedical understandings, contributing to the stigmatization of affected groups. A holistic approach is needed to address the complex interplay of factors shaping local disease attribution and resulting discrimination.
Therefore, the study concludes that leprosy and its effect on marriage, employment opportunities, the economy, education, and psychological effects are still causing a double burden on those leprosy-affected communities. Based on these findings, the researcher recommends that conducting awareness-creation trainings for the public at large and health professionals specifically to reduce discrimination against persons affected by leprosy. The government and relevant stakeholders, including associations of persons affected by leprosy, are recommended to prepare and deliver these awareness-creation initiatives.
Key Words: Leprosy, Discrimination, Stigma, Persons affected by leprosy, Socio-cultural factors
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Keywords
Leprosy, Discrimination, Stigma, Persons affected by leprosy, Socio-cultural factors