Historical and Social Aspects of Leprosy in Ethiopia
No Thumbnail Available
Date
1992-03
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Addis Abeba Universty
Abstract
A qualitative study based on individual interview was carried out
in Tekle Haimanot and adjacent Awrajas and at the All African
Leprosy Rehabilitation and Training Centre (ALERT). A total of 54
respondents were interviewed out of whom 20 were leprosy patients
and the rest were religious leaders, high school students, high
school teachers, general health workers at Tekle Haimanot Health
Centre, health workers at ALERT and non leprosy patients. In this
study the patterns and trends of leprosy stigmata were reviewed.
Through the in-depth interviews it was observed that the negative
reactions to leprosy were very prevalent, including among tlle leprosy
patients, and had a serious impact on the control of
leprosy. Though not conclusive, it was found out that there were
very strong, high similarities in the patterns and trends of social
responses regarding leprosy over the last 35 years. Leprosy was
perceived as a unique, chronic, non-fatal but progressively
deforming disease with doubtful curability and especially a disease
which could cause a disgrace to the victims and their families.
The findings of this study strongly showed the importance of
addressing the psychological and social issues of leprosy patients
and the general perceptions of the society regarding leprosy before
i mplementing or initiating integration of leprosy control program
into the general health service. In-service training to health
work ers, health education about current knowledge of leprosy to the
patients and studies on knowledge, attitude and behaviour of
leprosy patients and the public are recommended.
Description
Keywords
Historical and Social Aspects