Mr. Pavan Kumar Thatoju, alumnus 2022 – 2024, Master of Public Health, School of Medical Sciences made an e-poster presentation of his thesis study at 8th International Disability conference conducted by PRASHO organisation in collaboration with London school of hygiene and tropical medicine, international centre for evidence in disability, UK aid and PENDA.
The title of his Study “Quality of Life among disabled leprosy patients who underwent Reconstructive surgery” was done under supervision of Dr. M Surya Durga Prasad assistant professor, school of medical sciences.
Abstract of the presentation:
Leprosy, a chronic neglected tropical disease, often results in disabilities and social stigma, significantly affecting the quality of life (QoL) of those impacted.
Our descriptive cross-sectional study conducted at Shivananda Rehabilitation Home, Hyderabad, assessed the QoL of 120 individuals with disabilities who underwent reconstructive surgery (RCS). Using the WHO-BREF tool, we evaluated four domains: physical, psychological, social, and environmental.
The physical domain showed the highest improvement (mean score: 69.68±11.02), while the psychological domain scored lowest (56.90±11.06). Social and environmental domains also indicated notable progress, with scores of 64.72±12.30 and 64.29±7.33, respectively. Factors like age, education, employment, income, and time since RCS significantly influenced outcomes.
These findings highlight the positive impact of RCS in restoring physical functionality, reducing stigma, and enhancing social reintegration. Promoting awareness about RCS can further empower individuals affected by leprosy-related disabilities to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives.