Knowledge attitude and Practices about leprosy in a fishing community in Karachi Pakistan

ABSTRACT

To determine the level of knowledge, attitude and practices regarding leprosy in a fishing community of Karachi. A cross-sectional study was conducted at Muach Goth Kemari Town Karachi, from June-August 2005. About 300 people who did not have leprosy were interviewed randomly using a structured pre tested questionnaire. The inclusion criteria were adult, non diseased and resident of Muach Goth Kemari town. The findings of this study showed lack of knowledge about the cause, sign symptom, treatment and prevention of disease. The attitude towards the patient was found positive showing sympathy but at the same time significant level of stigma was found about the leprosy patient among the community. The majority of people did not receive any health education session or attended any seminar on leprosy and only 3% were aware of leprosy center in the area. The community lacks knowledge about leprosy. Emphasis must be given on Health education. A high positive attitude was found with significant level of stigma. Only educational efforts can bring about change to over come the disease and improve knowledge of the people