Social identity of leprosy-affected people in Puducherry region: A qualitative study.

Leprosy is a least communicable disease affecting the human race. It can result in disability and impairments though can be prevented and treated effectively when diagnosed on time. It imposes constraint on the day to day activities and social participation of the affected persons. The result of disease stigma had furthered to the problem of social exclusion. Despite efficient treatments and considerable public awareness the stigma associated with the disease stands as a major issue in many societies. With social pressures such as poverty, illiteracy and unequal allotment of medical resources, the sufferers of leprosy experience increased social inequity. Leprosy had not only affected the physical condition but the status and roles of the individuals were also compromised in many ways. The disability resulting from the disease also declines the economic production of the affected individuals. Hence, the social factors attached with leprosy are studied in order to understand the status and identities of the sufferers. From literature survey on leprosy, it is understood that in spite of several programs and researches being done on the aspect of prevention and rehabilitation of the leprosy-affected people, there are very few studies carried out on the socio-cultural aspect of the community affected with leprosy. There are a number of people with leprosy and its social consequences living in Puducherry; a study on the social implications as a result of leprosy in a qualitative way is hence necessary. A qualitative study with observation and semi-structured interviews is carried out from the leprosy-affected individuals and families, in generating their case studies regarding their roles and status within family and society. Secondary sources were referred simultaneously.