THE PREVALENCE OF LEPROSY AMONG DIFFERENT ETHNIC GROUPS IN THE BLUE NILE VALLEY OF WESTERN ETHIOPIA

Abstract

ABSTRACT: An epidemiological study of leprosy among different ethnic groups in the Blue Nile valley of western Ethiopia was conducted to obtain baseline data on disease prevalence. A total of 1430 people in three villages were examined for clinical signs and symptoms of leprosy. History, physical examination and skin smears were done. The prevalence rate of leprosy was found to be the highest (53/1000) among the Nilotic people on the southern banks of the Blue Nile River, while the prevalence for Oromo people of the highest altitudes was near zero. For the Nilotic people of Dalati (altitude 1,200 m) the prevalence rate was 18/1000. Although it constitutes a major health problem in the lowlands, leprosy seems to be comparatively less prevalent in the highlands. Possible socio-cultural explanations for this epidemiological pattern of leprosy in Mendi District are discussed and suggestions for further investigation and control measures are given.