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Socioeconomic burden of lymphatic filariasis in G eorgetown, G uyana
Author(s) -
Tyrell Ede
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
tropical medicine and international health
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.056
H-Index - 114
eISSN - 1365-3156
pISSN - 1360-2276
DOI - 10.1111/tmi.12017
Subject(s) - lymphatic filariasis , socioeconomic status , filariasis , medicine , immunology , environmental health , population , helminths
Objective To assess the socioeconomic impact of lymphatic filariasis ( LF ) in G uyana. Methods Observational, cross‐sectional study of 50 persons with chronic LF attending the Filariasis Clinic who were selected as the cases; and 50 persons with chronic skin conditions but no chronic LF , attending the Skin Clinic who were selected as the controls. The two groups were assessed using semi‐structured interviews. Results Socioeconomic impact was statistically significant, especially with respect to ‘having to change jobs’ and experiencing major emotional and financial changes ( P < 0.05). Fifty‐six per cent of cases reported a major change since their diagnosis, whereas only 32% of controls did. Cases were less likely to be able to dress themselves and walk inside and outside the house than controls; they were three times more likely to spend money on transportation than controls ( OR , 3.04 95% CI 1.11, 8.44). Conclusion Patients with chronic LF face a considerable burden, which should be addressed as part of the E limination P rogramme. One way in which this can be done is to provide free transportation for patients with chronic LF to and from Filariasis Clinics.