Quality of life, stigma, and mental health, in individuals affected by leprosy: a cross-sectional study

Abstract

BACKGROUND: Leprosy rarely causes death but leads to disfigurement, stigma, and disability, resulting in socioeconomic consequences. Understanding these inter-related factors is essential for developing effective interventions. This study aimed to assess QoL and mental health among individuals affected by leprosy and to examine identify QoL predictors. METHODS: A cross-sectional study was conducted in urban leprosy rehabilitation centres in Ethiopia. A total of 370 individuals were enrolled. Correlation and multivariable regression analyses were used to examine associations and identify predictors of QoL. RESULTS: Participants were predominantly male (54.1%) and aged ≥61 years (42.8%). Most had no education (57.3%), while only 4.3% had secondary education or above; one-half were married. Poor living conditions were reported in 84.05% of participants, while delayed diagnosis (≥2 years after symptom onset) was observed in 53% of cases. The median social relationship QoL score was 7 (IQR 5-9), while that for overall QoL was 61 (IQR 56-68). Median sleep score was 8 (IQR 6-11). Stigma correlated positively with anxiety (r = 0.206) and depression (r = 0.269) and negatively with QoL (r = -0.251). Anxiety and depression were strongly correlated (r = 0.794, P < .001). CONCLUSIONS: Stigma, psychological distress and poor sleep impair QoL among people affected by leprosy, highlighting the need for multidisciplinary interventions.