Extent and correlates of leprosy stigma in rural India

Abstract

Representative random samples of leprosy patients (599) and community members (2399) from rural areas of Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal and Chhattisgarh states of India were interviewed by trained field investigators during 2006, using two separate 5-point scales to assess the extent and correlates of leprosy stigma. Varying degrees of stigma were faced by the affected persons within the family and outside in all the States, restricting their social participation and sharing of common facilities. The community members also confirmed the existence of a high level of stigma. Low educational and economic status, older age-groups, and presence of deformities enhance both perceived and enacted stigma.