Leprosy stigma in the healthcare setting: Lived experiences of persons affected by leprosy in Niger.

ABSTRACT: Leprosy-related stigma is deeply rooted in history and permeates every aspect of society, and stigmatization by healthcare professionals is no exception. This paper explores the experiences of persons affected by leprosy with stigma in the healthcare setting throughout their treatment-seeking journey. We conducted one-on-one interviews with 112 individuals who experienced a leprosy diagnosis and underwent treatment. Data was collected in July and August 2022, in nine villages and one urban neighborhood in the region of Maradi, Niger. Over two-thirds of participants experienced some form of visible impairment due to leprosy. Throughout their treatment-seeking journey, healthcare providers were reported to have stigmatized patients by using hurtful language, isolating patients, physically di

SUBMITTER: Alio AP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12527163 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature