Abstract
Globally, 40 million people live with the chronic effects of lymphatic filariasis (LF), making it the second leading cause of disability in the world. Despite this, there is limited research into the experiences of people living with the disease. This review summarises the research on the experiences of people living with LF disability. The review highlights the widespread social stigma and oppressive psychological issues that face most people living with LF-related disability. Physical manifestations of LF make daily activities and participation in community life difficult. The findings confirm the need for the Global Programme to Eliminate Lymphatic Filariasis (GPELF) to support morbidity management activities that address the complex biopsychosocial issues that people living with LF-related disability face.
Highlights
Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a parasitic disease endemic in 81 countries
Analytical rigor in terms of descriptions of analysis and coding techniques was insufficient in many papers, it is acknowledged that limited publishing space makes this difficult
This paper aimed to review the qualitative literature on the experience of LF-related disability
Summary
Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a parasitic disease endemic in 81 countries. The global burden is 120 million people, with 40 million people chronically disabled by the disease and about twice that number suffering from covert lymphatic changes or kidney disease [1]. LF is caused by three filarial nematodes: Brugia malayi, Brugia timori, and, most commonly, Wucheria bancrofti [3]. These parasites are transmitted via a number of different mosquito hosts, which vary geographically. The most common chronic manifestations of the disease are lymphoedema and hydrocele. Other less reported clinical expressions include lymphoedema of the breast, swelling of the vulva, and rheumatic and respiratory problems [4]
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
