Improving treatment outcomes for leprosy in Pernambuco, Brazil: a qualitative study exploring the experiences and perceptions of retreatment patients and their carers.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Brazil has a high leprosy burden and poor treatment outcomes (TOs), manifesting in high relapse rates. Pernambuco, an impoverished Brazilian state suffering notable geographical health inequalities, has 'hyperendemic' leprosy. Although current literature identifies barriers and facilitators influencing leprosy treatment compliance, inadequate investigation exists on other factors influencing TOs, including carers' roles and psycho-dermatological impact. This qualitative study explores experiences and perceptions of leprosy patients and their carers in Pernambuco, Brazil; to identify location-specific factors influencing TOs, and consequently inform future management.

Methods

27, semi-structured, in-depth interviews were conducted with 14 patients and 13 carers. Pa

SUBMITTER: Khanna D 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC7980336 | biostudies-literature | 2021 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature