Effects of lymphatic filariasis on the socio-economic life of the people of Narkwa in the Mfantseman municipality of the Central region of Ghana

Abstract

Lymphatic filariasis, a disease that is rarely fatal but it results in clinical conditions have devastating effects on persons infected by it. It causes long-term and permanent disability as well as social and psychological problems. The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes. The study was carried out to examine people’s opinion and beliefs about the causes and socio-economic effects of lymphatic filariasis infection. It was carried out in the Narkwa community of the Mfantseman Municipality in the Central Region of Ghana using structured interview. Respondents were aware of the common manifestations of lymphatic filariasis and had a local name for the disease. They admitted that the lymphatic filariasis has considerable negative effects on the quality of life. Respondents were of the view that lymphatic filariasis reduced the infected persons’ productivity and impaired their sexual function. Infected persons’ felt stigmatized. Majority of the infected persons indicated that they visit the hospitals for treatment even though some of them mentioned that they sometimes used herbal medicines provided by traditional medical practitioners. It is recommended that the government should equip hospitals and health centres in endemic communities with the necessary drugs and personnel for early detection of the disease for necessary attention.