@article{93831,
  author = {Yadav N and Kar S},
  title = {Clinico-epidemiological profile of disabilities among new leprosy patients in a rural tertiary care hospital in Maharastra, India},
  abstract = {Leprosy is a leading cause of preventable disability in India. By diagnosing leprosy at an early stage we can
surely reduce the deformity and handicap percentage. The study of deformity and their emerging pattern in
different geographical settings also helps in formulating preventive and rehabilitative measures. Aim of this
study was to generate information about the clinical pattern and epidemiological aspect of deformities in
leprosy patients in a Tertiary Care Hospital in rural settings of Maharashtra, India. All clinically diagnosed
leprosy cases over a period of one and half year (January 2014 to August 2015) were included in the study.
Detailed history regarding leprosy disability, sensory loss, skin smear for AFB and histopathological
examination were done. In our study the persons of 21-40 years age group were found to be most common
affected. There was positive association between educational status and occurrence of disability and also
number of affected nerves and disability. Statistically significant association was found between lepra
reaction and deformity. This study showed a high rate of grade 2 disability and leprosy reactions at the time of
presentation which indicate late diagnosis. Further, the high proportion of multibacillary cases is a reason for
alarm. All these parameters indicate the need for early detection through active case search in community
and not only depending on voluntary reporting of cases. Community based studies should be carried out to
understand the magnitude and reasons for taking evidence based public health measures.},
  year = {2020},
  journal = {Indian journal of leprosy},
  volume = {92},
  pages = {1-18},
  url = {http://www.ijl.org.in/2020/02%20N%20Yadav%20and%20s%20kar%20%20(11-18)%20(1).pdf},
  language = {eng},
}