The Effectiveness of De-stigmatising Interventions
Journal Title: International Journal of TROPICAL DISEASE & Health - Year 2014, Vol 4, Issue 12
Abstract
Aims: This study on leprosy was conducted to assess the effectiveness of the de-stigmatising interventions which were launched by three different groups of people. Study Design: Cross-sectional survey. Place and Duration of Study: Raj Pracha Samasai Institute and Chaiyaphum province, Thailand, May 2013. Methodology: The study was done in three districts of Chaiyaphum province, Thailand. Community members and health workers were interviewed using the Explanatory Model Interview Catalogue (EMIC) scale. Frequency tables were used to describe the percentage of respondents who perceived stigma. A p-value of <0.05 was considered indicative of a statistically significant difference. A t-test was applied to compare between the mean EMIC score of community members and health workers before and after interventions. Results: It was found that de-stigmatising interventions involving affected persons resulted in a measurable reduction of perceived stigma related to leprosy among community members and health workers. In the area of a self-help group (SHG) significant reductions were found in the mean EMIC score after interventions. There was no reduction of negative attitudes and perceived stigma either among community members or health workers in the area where de-stigmatising interventions were launched by a formal health care group. A high percentage of people with perceived stigma were still found in all areas (ranging from 77 to 85 %). Conclusion: Involving the community and people affected themselves in de-stigmatising interventions, and tailor-made education are keys to success in reducing stigma related to leprosy. Sustaining of the intervention is important to ensure a gradual reduction of stigma in the long run.
Authors and Affiliations
Silatham Sermrittirong, Wim H. Van Brakel, J. F. G. Bunders-Aelen, Gomes Unarat, Pojana Thanyakittikul
Keywords
Related Articles
- EP ID EP343498
- DOI 10.9734/IJTDH/2014/13296
- Views 72
- Downloads 0
In vitro Antiplasmodial, Antitrypanosomal, Antileishmanial and Cytotoxic Activities of Various Fractions of Abrus precatorius Leaf
Background: Infectious diseases are the worst problem in tropical and subtropical regions of the world. The Nupe ethnic group from Nigeria has been using the leaves of Abrus precatorius for treatment of malaria and vario...
Evidence of Hepatitis C Virus Antibodies amongst Pregnant Women in Parts of North Central Nigeria
Background: Hepatitis C virus (HCV) is one of the viral hepatitis of great public health significance globally. The infection if not detected and treated at the early stage can cause liver fibrosis that may lead to liver...
Utilization of HIV Testing and Counseling Services by Men in the Bolgatanga Municipality
Background: In the absence of an effective vaccine and cure for Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), testing and counseling for HIV remains an important intervention in the control of the infection. However, utilization o...
Pattern of Presentation, and Treatment Outcomes of Intra-abdominal Abscesses, in a Suburban Hospital in Bayelsa State Nigeria
Aim: To determine the pattern of presentation, etiology, clinical features, and treatment outcome of intra-abdominal abscess in sub-urban Bayelsa Nigeria and suggest possible preventive measures. Place and Duration of St...
Relationship between Perceived Body Weight and Body Mass Index among Health Care Workers in a Limited Resource Secondary Health Care Facility in North Central Nigeria
Aims: Overweight and obesity are leading causes of preventable deaths globally and healthcare workers should educate patients and the public about the danger of obesity. This is enhanced if they have appropriate percepti...