Patients' perception on leprosy prejudice

Abstract

This is a descriptive type study of qualitative approach that aimed to describe the perception of leprosy patients on the prejudice with this disease in their daily lives. The population was composed by 23 informants who were monitoring the disease in a Health Reference Center of leprosy in Ceará, Brazil. Data collection happened between August and September 2009 using semi-structured interviews. Data was analyzed through content analysis. We noticed the existence of prejudice against people with leprosy, not only by the population, but by the patient himself, that hide his condition for fear of people's reaction, and in some cases seek isolation. We concluded that the stigma still exists and seems more resistant than the disease itself. To overcome social prejudice, including by the users, is the great challenge associated with leprosy.