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Research Journal of Medical Sciences

ISSN: Online 1993-6095
ISSN: Print 1815-9346
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A Comparative Study of the Quality of Life, Knowledge, Attitude and Belief about Leprosy Disease among Leprosy Patients and Community Members

Saurabh Krishna Misra, Ravi Ranjan Singh, Hariom K. Singh and Richa Dokania
Page: 475-479 | Received 19 Jun 2024, Published online: 30 Jul 2024

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https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2024.8.475.479

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Abstract

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease that primarily affects the skin, peripheral nerves, mucosa of the upper respiratory tract and eyes. Despite significant advancements in treatment, stigma and discrimination against leprosy patients persist. This study aims to compare the quality of life, knowledge, attitude and beliefs about leprosy among leprosy patients and community members in the Delhi NCR region. A cross‐sectional study was conducted from July 2020 to April 2022 involving 110 participants, including 55 leprosy patients and 55 community members. Data were collected using structured questionnaires assessing quality of life (WHOQOL‐BREF), knowledge, attitude and beliefs about leprosy. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS software, with descriptive statistics and inferential analysis (Chi‐square test and t‐test) to compare the two groups. The mean quality of life score for leprosy patients was significantly lower (mean=50.2, SD = 10.5) compared to community members (mean=72.4, SD=8.7) (p<0.001). Knowledge about leprosy was higher among community members, with an average score of 78% correct answers compared to 62% among leprosy patients (p<0.01). Attitudes toward leprosy were more positive among community members (mean attitude score=7.8, SD=1.2) compared to leprosy patients (mean attitude score=6.1, SD=1.5) (p<0.05). Beliefs about leprosy, including misconceptions about transmission and treatment, were more prevalent among leprosy patients. The study highlights significant disparities in quality of life, knowledge, attitude, and beliefs about leprosy between leprosy patients and community members. There is a critical need for targeted educational interventions to address misconceptions and improve the quality of life for leprosy patients. Enhancing community awareness and reducing stigma can contribute to better health outcomes and social integration for individuals affected by leprosy.

How to cite this article:

Saurabh Krishna Misra, Ravi Ranjan Singh, Hariom K. Singh and Richa Dokania. A Comparative Study of the Quality of Life, Knowledge, Attitude and Belief about Leprosy Disease among Leprosy Patients and Community Members.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.36478/10.36478/makrjms.2024.8.475.479
URL: https://www.makhillpublications.co/view-article/1815-9346/10.36478/makrjms.2024.8.475.479