Journal

The live experience of people suffered by leprosy

Leprosy, unlike other high-fatality diseases, is a long-term, chronic illness that
can cause long-term disability. People's experiences with leprosy in Indonesia,
indicating a need for responsive leprosy services to meet the wide range of
requirements, including care for those who are not formally afflicted with the
disease. This study aimed to explore live experience of people affected by
leprosy in the community in Banten province, Indonesia. This study employed
inductive phenomenological research methods with a semi-structure
interview. We used snowball sampling, and people who could not
communicate or did not want to take part in the study were not included. The
majority of the participants were below 45 years, and 21 were male and 19
were female. Among total participants, only 15% could not read and write.
The data were examined using Colaizzi's phenomenological analysis, which
involves collecting and analysing data in parallel until no new information is
acquired. We established trustworthiness in qualitative studies. The following
themes emerged from this study: i) public understanding about leprosy; ii)
psychological response; iii) perceived stigma; iv) health seeking behavior; and
v) leprosy's impact on economic condition. This study identified the meaning
of leprosy patients' lives through their own voices. People who have leprosy
should also get spiritual help, coping skills, and training in self-care skills

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