Transforming Lives: Understanding the Quality of Life of Leprosy Patients in Northern India
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Date
2025-06
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Hind Kusht Nivaran Sangh (Indian Leprosy Association)
Abstract
Leprosy also known as Hansen抯 disease, is a long-lasting infectious condition that considerably affects the quality of life of those affected. The purpose of this study is to assess the impact on quality of life of leprosy patients in a tertiary care center located in North India. 172 patients suffering from leprosy and aged 16 or over were recruited for the study, and their quality of life was measured using the Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI). From the data, it was found that a large section of the sample population (90.7%) noted that their quality of life has reduced with a mean DLQI score of 9.31�21. Patients suffering from lepromatous leprosy and pure neuritic types had worse quality of life estimates compared to borderline and tuberculoid leprosy patients who reported having relatively better estimates. Also, the presence of complications and the duration of illness significantly lowered the quality-of-life scores. The demographic characteristics which included age, sex, marital status and socio-economic status did not relate significantly to the DLQI scores. The study demonstrates the heterogenous burden of leprosy from physical, psychological, and social perspectives and highlights the importance of developing comprehensive care plans alongside medical attention to enhance patient outcomes.
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Keywords
Leprosy, Quality of Life, Northern India, Stigma, Tertiary Care Center, DLQI
Citation
Fatima A, Chaudhary S, Jamil RA, Ratnika.. Transforming Lives: Understanding the Quality of Life of Leprosy Patients in Northern India. Indian Journal of Leprosy . 2025 Jun; 97(2): 133-141