A qualitative study of the perceptions, practices and socio-psychological suffering related to chronic brugian filariasis in Kerala, southern India.

Lymphatic filariasis is a major health problem in many parts of the tropical world. Although the disease itself is rarely fatal, the disability caused by the swollen extremities, the acute attacks of adenolymphangitis and the consequent sufferings of those afflicted are considerable. The economic burden imposed by lymphatic filariasis is not fully quantified and information on the social and psychological problems caused by the disease is scanty. Semi-structured interviews were therefore used, in southern India, to assess the perceptions, practices and socio-psychological problems of 127 patients with brugian filariasis. The patients were aware of the causative factors and the precautions to be taken to prevent progression of the disease. However, depression and loss of job opportunities were common in the study population. Patients also complained that the disease eroded their standing in the community and diminished their prospects of marriage. Awareness of these factors will be of help in planning suitable disability-management packages, including the rehabilitation of those who find it difficult to carry on with their existing jobs because of the severity of their disease.