01769nas a2200241   4500000000100000008004100001653002500042653001200067653000800079653001200087653001000099653001300109100001000122700001000132700001400142700001400156700001500170245010900185856005100294300001200345490000700357520116300364       2014                            d10aQualitative Research10aParents10aMDT10aleprosy10aIndia10aChildren1 aLal V1 aPAL S1 aHALDAR NK1 aMANDAL PK1 aSRINIVAS G00aWhat parents should know while their child is on MDT: Insights from a qualitative study in Eastern India  uhttps://leprosyreview.org/article/85/2/08-1084  a81–840 v853 a<p>Summary In order to provide high quality leprosy services to children affected by leprosy, it is necessary to actively engage parents. A qualitative study was undertaken as part of routine monitoring of field activities in West Bengal, India. A non-probability sample of 20 parents whose child was currently undergoing treatment was interviewed to explore the experiences of parents with regard to the diagnosis of leprosy and the treatment of their child. The most common initial symptom was a white patch and the median duration between recognition of the symptom and care-seeking was 6 months. The most commonly reported side-effect was a black discolouration which had led to non-adherence as well as resulting in school absenteeism. None of the parents had any knowledge of reactions. Although current strategies have enabled early case detection, there are challenges related to ensuring treatment completion. Emphasis should be laid on interpersonal communication to empower parents, enabling them to appreciate the side-effects and recognise the complications early and be actively engaged as a treatment partner while their child is on MDT.</p>