Lived experience of people living with Podoconiosis in Southern Ethiopia: a phenomenological study

BackgroundPodoconiosis is a neglected tropical disease (NTD) that causes lower-leg swelling (lymphedema) and is caused by prolonged contact with irritating red-clay soil. Podoconiosis affects 4 million people worldwide, with Ethiopia having the highest prevalence. The disease has significantly increased the social, psychological, and financial strain on those who are affected. However, few studies have explored the real-world experiences of people living with Podoconiosis in Ethiopia. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the lived experiences of people living with Podoconiosis in Southern Ethiopia. MethodologyA descriptive phenomenological study design was carried out to explore the lived experiences of 14 purposively selected people living with Podoconiosis in Sodo Zuriya district, Wolaita zone, Southern Ethiopia. In-depth interviews were conducted in the local language using an interview guide. All interviews were recorded using a digital audio recorder. The collected data were transcribed and translated to English and the data were analyzed using the qualitative data management software Atlas-ti version 7.5.16. A thematic analysis approach was used for analyzing the data and reporting the results. ResultsThe thematic analysis of data revealed six prominent themes. The perceived cause of Podoconiosis, socio-economic impact, physical health experiences, psychological health problems, health care experiences, and coping mechanisms. The participants perceived that the causes of Podoconiosis were action of witchcraft, heredity, walking barefoot, and a curse from God or an evil spirit. As a result of Podoconiosis, patients suffered from difficulty walking, pain, wound development, and an associated bad odor, were banned by their family and community members, and felt hopeless. Patients used different coping mechanisms, including social support, traditional medicines and plants, they also expressed frequent washing of feet. ConclusionPeople living with Podoconiosis experienced social, physical, and psychological health problems such as stigma, isolation, fear, shame, and activity limitations. Healthcare organizations should provide integrated services for people living with Podoconiosis, including physical therapy, psychological support, social reintegration, and available services for Podoconiosis patients in health centers.