Stigmatization Research Articles

Stigmatization of People with Disability in Nepal

Individuals with disabilities constitute a surprisingly small segment of Nepal's total population. Notwithstanding the prolonged Maoist-led insurgency in Nepal leading to a heightened incidence of disabilities, social stigma attached to disability and under-reporting of disability cases remain widespread. The opportunities for education and employment for individuals with disabilities are restricted due to societal perceptions, leading many to choose not to disclose their disabilities in order to avoid stigma. Society often views individuals with disabilities as burdens and lacking the capacity for independence, with discrimination beginning at birth. Additionally, families strive to conceal their disabled members to protect their social reputation. This paper tries to examine the societal stigma associated with individuals having physical, visual and hearing disabilities in Kathmandu. Participants expressed the emotional exhaustion of consistently having to showcase their capabilities, facing bias, and experiencing social exclusion driven by cultural superstitions such as stigma. Many people with disabilities exhibit a variety of skills; however, societal perceptions frequently overlook theseabilities and reinforce persistent stigmas. Blind people encounter substantial obstacles, including societal perceptions of dependency and inadequacy. Misconceptions impede employment opportunities and social relationships, especially for women who face greater scrutiny. The outcome is emotional stress and social isolation. Addressing these challenges requires a change in societal perspectives, emphasizing abilities rather than disabilities, ensuring open space, and fostering inclusion to counteract pervasive biases.

Experiences of Families Affected by Imprisonment in Turkey: The Case of Ankara Province

ABSTRACT While interest in the impact of imprisonment on families has been increasing, there is still limited knowledge regarding the social, cultural, and relational aspects of the experiences of families of convicted individuals in the Turkish context. This study examines the experiences of families affected by imprisonment in Ankara. Focusing particularly on the effects of a parent’s incarceration on the family, the research employs a qualitative design, with in-depth semi-structured interviews conducted with 17 spouses of convicted individuals. The findings reveal that families of convicted individuals face significant psychosocial and economic challenges, experience hardships throughout the incarceration process, and receive insufficient social support during this period. The study highlights that women, in particular, endure greater difficulties due to cultural pressures stemming from gender roles and social stigmatization. These challenges make it difficult for women to make sense of their experiences and to seek support. Additionally, the geographical location of prisons, often distant from city centers, coupled with stringent security measures, hinders families from maintaining communication and emotional bonds with their incarcerated relatives. This research fills a gap in the literature on the experiences of families of convicted individuals in Turkey, addressing their experiences from a human rights and social justice perspective.

Navigating the currents: understanding awareness, attitudes, and menstrual hygiene management challenges in Bangladesh's Haor Region.

Menstrual hygiene management (MHM) is an important but often neglected aspect of women's health worldwide, especially in developing and disaster-prone countries, such as Bangladesh. This qualitative study aimed to investigate awareness, attitudes, and practices related to MHM among girls in the Haor region, particularly during floods. The study adopts a phenomenological approach, and data were collected using purposive sampling from 33 women aged 15 years and above who resided in the Haor region. Thematic analysis was employed to identify the patterns, themes, and subthemes within the qualitative data. The study reveals a significant lack of widespread knowledge about menstruation among girls in the Haor area, which is associated with unfavourable family and social attitudes, and stigma or taboos. Natural hazards, cultural barriers, access to the market, economic incapacity, and inadequate infrastructure make it very difficult to manage menstruation, which is especially aggravated during floods due to displacement and shelter on the roadside, primary schools, and other people's houses. This research emphasises the need for tailored MHM programmes from the government to address the unique challenges faced by women in Haor regions. Provision of sanitary napkins and essential medicines, maintaining stock in shelters, and equipping community clinics with MHM-related healthcare services are essential. Finally, NGOs should prioritise MH within their scope of work.

Rethinking neglected tropical diseases: A shift towards more inclusive and equitable terminology.

Neglected tropical diseases (NTD) refer to a group of 21 diseases that disproportionally affect impoverished communities in low- and middle-income countries (LMIC) [1]. NTD collectively impact 1.7 billion people, which is about 20% of the world's population [1]. Each year, NTD account for more than 200,000 deaths, with millions left disabled and disfigured due to insufficient access to care and affordable treatment, often leading to social exclusion, stigmatization and discrimination. Although the term NTD has successfully directed funding and resources towards these conditions and encouraged global partnerships and high-level policy initiatives, the term may also have unintended negative consequences. In this paper, we aim to explore the term NTD and stimulate a dialogue that re-evaluates its meaning into more inclusive and equitable language.

Summer Research Internship Curriculum to Promote Self-Efficacy, Researcher Identity, and Peer-to-Peer Learning: Retrospective Cohort Study.

Common barriers to students' persistence in research include experiencing feelings of exclusion and a lack of belonging, difficulties developing a robust researcher identity, perceptions of racial and social stigma directed toward them, and perceived gaps in research skills, which are particularly pronounced among trainees from groups traditionally underrepresented in research. To address these known barriers, summer research programs have been shown to increase the participation and retention of undergraduate students in research. However, previous programs have focused predominantly on technical knowledge and skills, without integrating an academic enrichment curriculum that promotes professional development by improving students' academic and research communication skills. This retrospective pre-then-post study aimed to evaluate changes in self-reported ratings of research abilities among a cohort of undergraduate students who participated in a summer research program. The Human BioMolecular Atlas Program (HuBMAP) piloted the implementation of a web-based academic enrichment curriculum for the Summer 2023 Research Internship cohort, which was comprised of students from groups underrepresented in biomedical artificial intelligence research. HuBMAP, a 400-member research consortium funded by the Common Fund at the National Institutes of Health, offered a 10-week summer research internship that included an academic enrichment curriculum delivered synchronously via the web to all students across multiple sites. The curriculum is intended to support intern self-efficacy, researcher identity development, and peer-to-peer learning. At the end of the internship, students were invited to participate in a web-based survey in which they were asked to rate their academic and research abilities before the internship and as a result of the internship using a modified Entering Research Learning Assessment instrument. Wilcoxon matched-pairs signed rank test was performed to assess the difference in the mean scores per respondent before and after participating in the internship. A total of 14 of the 22 undergraduate students who participated in the internship responded to the survey. The results of the retrospective pre-then-post survey indicated that there was a significant increase in students' self-rated research abilities, evidenced by a significant improvement in the mean scores of the respondents when comparing reported skills self-assessment before and after the internship (improvement: median 1.09, IQR 0.88-1.65; W=52.5, P<.001). After participating in the HuBMAP web-based academic enrichment curriculum, students' self-reported research abilities, including their confidence, their communication and collaboration skills, their self-efficacy in research, and their abilities to set research career goals, increased. Summer internship programs can incorporate an academic enrichment curriculum with small-group peer learning in addition to a laboratory-based experience to facilitate increased student engagement, self-efficacy, and a sense of belonging in the research community. Future research should investigate the impact of academic enrichment curricula and peer mentoring on the long-term retention of students in biomedical research careers, particularly retention of students underrepresented in biomedical fields.

Meningitis outbreaks in northern Nigeria: a public health crisis

Background: Education is a fundamental right, yet millions of children, particularly orphans and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds, lack access to quality education. These children face systemic challenges such as financial constraints, social stigma, and inadequate educational infrastructure. The resulting educational disparity perpetuates poverty and limits social mobility, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. Methods and Materials: This project employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative insights. Field surveys, interviews, and collaborations with NGOs were conducted to assess the barriers to education for marginalized children. Secondary data from UNESCO, UNICEF, and other reputable sources were analyzed to identify best practices and evaluate policy frameworks. Key actions included community workshops, distribution of educational resources, and partnerships with local organizations. Results: The project positively impacted over 900 children, increasing school enrollment and raising community awareness about the importance of education. Successful interventions included resource distribution, community-based schools, and public-private partnerships. However, systemic challenges such as funding limitations, cultural resistance, and sustainability concerns persisted, emphasizing the need for comprehensive policy advocacy and long-term solutions. Conclusion: Investing in the education of orphans and children from low-income backgrounds is essential for societal progress. This study highlights the transformative potential of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering community development. Collaboration among policymakers, educators, and community leaders is crucial to sustaining and scaling these initiatives for lasting impact.

Importance of Orphan and Low Socioeconomic Backgrounds Education in Society Authors

Background: Education is a fundamental right, yet millions of children, particularly orphans and those from low socioeconomic backgrounds, lack access to quality education. These children face systemic challenges such as financial constraints, social stigma, and inadequate educational infrastructure. The resulting educational disparity perpetuates poverty and limits social mobility, underscoring the need for targeted interventions. Methods and Materials: This project employed a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative data analysis with qualitative insights. Field surveys, interviews, and collaborations with NGOs were conducted to assess the barriers to education for marginalized children. Secondary data from UNESCO, UNICEF, and other reputable sources were analyzed to identify best practices and evaluate policy frameworks. Key actions included community workshops, distribution of educational resources, and partnerships with local organizations. Results: The project positively impacted over 900 children, increasing school enrollment and raising community awareness about the importance of education. Successful interventions included resource distribution, community-based schools, and public-private partnerships. However, systemic challenges such as funding limitations, cultural resistance, and sustainability concerns persisted, emphasizing the need for comprehensive policy advocacy and long-term solutions. Conclusion: Investing in the education of orphans and children from low-income backgrounds is essential for societal progress. This study highlights the transformative potential of education in breaking the cycle of poverty and fostering community development. Collaboration among policymakers, educators, and community leaders is crucial to sustaining and scaling these initiatives for lasting impact.

Avertible filicide: a call to action for early intervention and mental health support in India.

Maternal filicide is a deeply distressing and potentially preventable phenomenon that demands priority attention. This study aims toshed light on the psychological, social and systemic factors contributing to maternal filicide. It calls for robust early intervention strategies and the establishment of comprehensive mental health support systems to mitigate the risk and prevent the occurence of such tragedies.. A detailed evaluation of a mother who committed filicide was undertaken The assessments included in-depth psychiatric evaluations, interviews with family members, review of the individual's medical history, prior social circumstances, and existing legal records. This comprehensive approach allowed for the identification of potential warning signs and gaps in intervention. Additionally, a review of existing literature and national frameworks related to maternal mental health was undertaken to contextualize the findings within the broader socio-cultural and healthcare landscape of India. The case highlights a complex interplay of untreated mental health disorders, social stigma, lack of accessible mental health services, and a failure to recognize warning signs by family members and professionals. The analysis reveals missed opportunities for intervention that might have prevented the act of filicide. Key contributing factors included postpartum mental health issues, socio-economic stressors, and inadequate social and legal support for the mother. This case underscores the need for systemic changes, including improved mental health screening during the perinatal period and the establishment of crisis intervention services. Maternal filicide is not solely a legal issue but also a multifaceted public health and social problem that warrants a multidisciplinary response. The findings emphasize the need for an integrated approach involving healthcare professionals, social workers, and law enforcement agencies to address the mental health challenges faced by mothers in distress. Early identification of at-risk individuals, destigmatization of mental health care, and the provision of timely interventions are pivotal in preventing such tragedies. This study underscores the urgency of implementing mental health policies that prioritize maternal mental health, enhance public awareness, and ensure the availability of accessible, culturally sensitive support systems for at-risk families.

Women Traficking and the Legal Provisions in India

Human trafficking, especially the exploitation of women, continues to be a severe violation of human rights both in India and across the globe. This issue involves deceptive and coercive practices that exploit women, often forcing them into various forms of servitude, including sexual exploitation. Although legal safeguards, such as Article 23 of the Indian Constitution, which bans trafficking, and various national laws intended to combat this issue, exist, human trafficking continues to thrive. Contributing factors include economic vulnerability, inadequate law enforcement, and entrenched social stigmas. This paper investigates the current situation of women's trafficking in India, highlighting important laws like the Immoral Traffic (Prevention) Act (ITPA) and the Suppression of Immoral Traffic in Women and Girls Act (SITA). It also examines the deficiencies in the legal framework, the cycle of exploitation that perpetuates trafficking, and the critical need for stronger and more comprehensive approaches. Through an analysis of research, judicial decisions, and legal measures, this study seeks to offer an in-depth understanding of the issue and propose effective solutions to address the trafficking of women.

Understanding the lived experiences of people living with epilepsy: Oral history assessment in the Shai Osudoku and Ningo Prampram districts, Ghana.

Epilepsy is a prevalent neurological condition globally, especially in Sub-Saharan Africa. In Ghana, it is one of the top five causes of premature death and disability, impacting children's neurological development and learning outcomes. Although 25% of epilepsy cases are preventable, many go undiagnosed and untreated. People with epilepsy face social stigma and rejection, hindering their ability to seek healthcare, employment, and social interactions, which worsens their self-esteem and social integration. The study aims to address the critical gaps in understanding and supporting people living with epilepsy (PLWE), through recording and analysing their experiences, and seeks to inform policy and practice, finally contributing to improve healthcare delivery, reduce stigma, and enhance support systems for PLWE. A qualitative research design was employed for the study. Oral histories (OHs) were conducted with ten PLWE. These interviews encourage interviewees to focus on the life stories and experiences that mean the most to them and can be shared in their own words The interview questions were constructed in English and conducted in English, Twi, Ga and Dangme. The residents of Shai Osudoku and Ningo Prampram hold robust religious convictions and engage in profound spiritual practices as is the case throughout Ghana. When faced with health challenges, the PLWE and their caregivers often seek assistance from faith-based spiritual healers, including pastors or religious leaders, as their initial source of support and healing. These healers provide care by offering prayers, spiritual counselling, and incorporating various religious rituals into their healing practices. It was revealed that many PLWE, caregivers and community members perceived epilepsy differently. Some perceived it as a spiritual or demonic disease. Whilst others attributed to curse and disease of witches, idols, or gods. However, the healthcare practitioners perceived epilepsy as a medical condition. Also, it was found that individuals faced challenges, such as stigma and discrimination. It is recommended that public education on epilepsy be intensified. Furthermore, there is the need to ensure that PLWE have access to improved healthcare to increase their quality of life.

Knowledge, Behaviours, and Attitudes of Family Physicians and Residents About Autism Spectrum Disorder in Turkey: A Descriptive Cross-Sectional Study.

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a growing social health issue. Primary healthcare institutions are where children most commonly seek help, and family physicians in primary care play a crucial role in early ASD detection. This study aims to assess the knowledge level, behaviours, and attitudes of family physicians and family medicine residents across Turkey, identify factors affecting their knowledge, and raise awareness among physicians. This descriptive cross-sectional study was conducted between March and June 2022, with the participation of family medicine specialists, residents, and practicing physicians in Turkey. A 50-question survey was administered face-to-face and digitally. The survey comprised 31 questions on sociodemographic information, factors influencing knowledge, attitudes and behaviours about ASD. The second part included a 19-question "Knowledge about childhood autism among health workers" (KCAHW) questionnaire. The study included 392 physicians with a mean age of 32.8 ± 7.9; 60.7% were women. Among the participants, 50.3% were family medicine residents, 21.7% were family medicine specialists, 17.0% were family physicians and 11.0% were contracted family medicine residents. The physicians' mean KCAHW score was 14.1 ± 2.6. Screening for ASD and following ASD were significantly associated with the perception of knowledge level (p = 0.004; p = 0.028, respectively). A statistically significant relationship was found between paediatric rotation, education about ASD, patient follow-ups and the KCAHW scores. Moreover, 98.2% of physicians believed children with ASD should receive special education, while 79.6% thought ASD carried a social stigma, and 52% believed an ASD diagnosis could lead to discrimination. The study found that participants lacked knowledge about comorbidities with ASD, atypical presentations of ASD, and guiding individuals with ASD. However, having a paediatric rotation, receiving ASD training and following up on children with ASD were associated with increased knowledge levels. Screening for and following up on children with ASD also boosted physicians' self-confidence.

Impact of Sociodemographic Factors on the Efficacy of Multidrug-resistant Tuberculosis Therapy in Russia: Retrospective Epidemiological Study

Abstract Background: Russia has the highest prevalence of multidrug-resistant/rifampicin-resistant tuberculosis (MDR/RR-TB) in the world. This study aims to evaluate the impact of sociodemographic determinants on the effectiveness of therapy in patients with MDR/RR-TB in the Khabarovsk krai region of Russia. Methods: We conducted a retrospective cross-sectional epidemiological study. Using the centralized national database of TB patients, data was collected on 2661 patients diagnosed with TB from 2018 to 2019 in all medical facilities of the region. After applying exclusion criteria, the final sample consisted of 531 patients with determined MDR/RR and with a known chemotherapy outcome. The influence on the therapy outcome of the 13 variables was analyzed using a binary logistic regression. Results: 10 out 13 analyzed variables had no influence on a given therapy’s effectiveness. These variables were sex, age, residence, occupation, substance abuse, presence of disability, circumstance of TB diagnosis, TB localization, HIV coinfection, and history of imprisonment. Previous treatment with Isoniazid and Rifampicin (P = 0.036, AOR 1.987, CI 95% 1.097 to 3.601), cavities absence in the lungs (P = 0.009, AOR 1.720, CI 95% 1.142 to 2.590), and living in a separate apartment (P = 0.023, AOD -1.150, 95% CI -2.223 to -1.027) significantly influenced treatment efficacy. Conclusion: Our findings point to demographic restructuring of the core of MDR/RR-TB carriers in Russia. As a way to resolve this situation, we wish to emphasize shifting the focus from risk groups and facility-based therapy to home-based therapy, as well as focusing on combating the social stigma and further improving HIV care.

Role of psychologists in enhancing care quality for individuals with serious mental illnesses: Introduction to a special section.

This special section underscores the importance of psychologists in improving and enhancing care for individuals with serious mental illnesses (SMIs). People with diagnoses typically included in the category of SMIs-schizophrenia, schizoaffective disorder, bipolar disorder, and other diagnoses with symptoms severely impacting functioning-typically have layered marginalities and experience significant social stigma in addition to mental health symptoms. The complexity of challenges commonly experienced by individuals with SMI requires that treatment providers have specialized knowledge, training, and skills to provide specialty care needed to support mental health recovery. The included articles illustrate the breadth of the impact of psychologists on care for this population to date as well as the need to address growing care gaps for people with SMI through specialized training support to increase the provision of evidence-based practices and high-quality care. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2025 APA, all rights reserved).

"Psychiatric oblivion": considerations on the hypothesis of a law.

The introduction of a law on psychiatric oblivion, similar to the recent one for oncological oblivion, presents numerous complexities due to the differences between the two areas of illness, especially in terms of recovery and clinical stability. While a definitive cure is often achievable in oncological diseases, in severe mental disorders, such as schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, complete remission in the absence of therapies is rare. Even in cases of effective treatment response, patients may exhibit subclinical symptoms or cognitive and functional deficits, making the concept of psychiatric oblivion particularly problematic. Some diagnostic categories, such as brief psychotic disorder or postpartum depression, could theoretically benefit from oblivion legislation, given the potentially limited course and frequent absence of relapses. However, for the majority of psychiatric conditions the requirement of a long period of remission without therapy appears difficult to achieve. An alternative could be the introduction of criteria based on the stabilization of maintenance therapy, but this would require a more complex and less easily standardized clinical judgment. Other limitations are the residual vulnerability to relapses, the difficulty in determining a precise medical history and the influence of persistent social stigmatization, which could undermine the effects of oblivion. Therefore, the creation of a law on psychiatric oblivion would require a restrictive and selective approach, focused on specific diagnoses and long-term clinical remission criteria, tailored to the clinical and adaptive peculiarities of mental illness.

Implementation of the Law on Sexual Violence: Challenges in Case Handling and Law Enforcement

The enactment of the Law on the Elimination of Sexual Violence represents a significant milestone in addressing sexual violence in society. This study examines the challenges and progress in implementing the Law on Sexual Violence Crimes, particularly in handling cases and ensuring effective law enforcement. Using a qualitative approach, data were gathered from legal documents and case studies. Findings indicate that while the Law on Sexual Violence Crimes has improved victim protection and provided a clearer legal framework, challenges persist in social stigma, lack of legal awareness, and resource constraints among law enforcement agencies. Additionally, inconsistencies in judicial interpretations and procedural delays hinder the effective resolution of cases. Recommendations include strengthening inter-agency coordination, increasing public awareness campaigns, and ensuring adequate training for law enforcement and judiciary personnel to enhance sensitivity and professionalism in handling sexual violence cases. This study underscores the importance of a multi-sectoral approach to ensure justice for victims and uphold the principles of the Law on Sexual Violence Crimes.

Book Review: Calvin J. Smiley, Purgatory Citizenship Reentry, Race, and Abolition.

In his book Purgatory Citizenship Reentry, Race, and Abolition, Calvin Smiley argues the contradictory nature of reentry and how those newly released from incarceration find themselves caught up in a web of confusion and complexity when trying to restart their lives as free individuals. Smiley relies upon ethnographic fieldwork, life-history interviews, informal conversations, and focus groups to explore how reentry does not always equal redemption. Those who were formerly incarcerated must endure the stress of society’s social stigmas and the diminishment of their legal rights. Caught up in this cycle, they attempt to navigate the lingering results of the carceral system. This state of virtual nonexistence prolongs their access to support and deprives them of opportunities as their seemingly never-ending punishment continues. Smiley champions abolitionist views for those who suffer through this Purgatory Citizenship.

Strategies of Formerly Incarcerated Balinese Women in Fighting Social Stigma

As in other regions of Indonesia, after serving their prison sentences, many women in Bali face difficulties in re-integrating into society. This article aims to reveal the strategies employed by formerly incarcerated Balinese females in combating social stigma. The chosen cases include embezzlement, identity fraud, and drug-related offenses, with the intention of understanding the challenges faced by these women. Data were collected through observation and interviews, focusing on the strategies utilized by three women to fight stigma and the legal perspectives regarding their stigmatization of these women. The analysis concludes that the patriarchal culture extends the arena of stigmatization for former Balinese female prisoners, as they have lost certain rights within their families and traditional socio-cultural norms. Stigma presents challenges for them in leading a normal life and hinders their social reintegration. Certain legal provisions reinforce this stigma, leading to discriminatory effects. This article encourages communities of former friends to participate in supporting them, so they become aware and do not reoffend. In this context, the role of the government and customary institutions is crucial in assisting former prisoners to return to normal societal life. Specifically, the BAPAS, the institution which, under Indonesian law, carries out the function of community guidance, plays an active part in accompanying former prisoners to ensure they regain their full rights as citizens.

Case report: Holistic approach to pregnant adolescents

Introduction: Teenage pregnancy is a global health problem with significant impacts on physical, mental, social, and economic health. In Indonesia, the prevalence of teenage pregnancy reaches 10%, with East Java recording a higher rate (12%). Factors such as lack of sexual education, limited access to contraceptives, social stigma, and low family support exacerbate this condition. Case Report: A 14-year-old adolescent girl in Surabaya experienced an unplanned pregnancy and faced limited family support and economic problems. During pregnancy, she experienced eating disorders, anxiety, and limited access to health services. A holistic approach was taken by a midwife, nutritionist, and psychologist, including family counseling, nutrition education, and planning for delivery by caesarean section to prevent complications. Discussion: Teenage pregnancy involves biological, psychosocial, and economic factors. Family and health professional support is essential to reduce the risk of complications such as anemia, preterm labor, and mental health disorders. 5 A holistic approach includes nutrition education, psychological counseling, and family and community support to improve the quality of life of mothers and babies. Continuity of Care (COC) ensures continuity of care from pregnancy, labor, to postpartum. Conclusion: A holistic approach and COC are effective in addressing the challenges of teenage pregnancy with a focus on the following aspects keywords.

The behaviour of TB patients in East Lombok through a health belief model approach

BackgroundTuberculosis (TB) is a global health problem, including in Indonesia, with East Lombok as a high prevalence region. Although control programmes have been implemented, TB cases remain high. Patient behaviours that are less supportive of treatment, such as non-compliance and social stigma, pose a challenge to TB control efforts in this area. This study aims to explore the behaviour of people with tuberculosis (TB) in East Lombok using the Health Belief Model (HBM) approach.Participants and procedureThe method applied was a cross-sectional design, involving 112 respondents with TB who were registered at the Puskesmas. Data were collected through interviews using a questionnaire measuring components of HBM, including perceived vulnerability, severity, benefits, barriers, cues to action, and self-efficacy.ResultsThe analysis showed that perceived vulnerability (p = 0.022), perceived benefits (p = 0.006), perceived barriers (p = 0.045), cues to action (p = 0.004), and self-efficacy (p = 0.009) had a significant influence on the health behaviour of TB patients. Patients with high perceived vulnerability were 1.617 times more likely to adhere to treatment, while those with high perceived barriers were 31.6% less likely to adhere. Social support from family and health professionals also played an important role in improving adherence.ConclusionsFrom this study emphasise the need for interventions designed to increase positive perceptions and reduce perceived barriers, as well as consider the local social and cultural context to improve TB treatment adherence in East Lombok.

Assessing the effect of open distance and E-learning (ODeL) in enhancing women’s access to higher education in Zambia

Gender inequality remains a significant issue in developing nations, where many women face social, cultural, and political stigmas, stereotypes, and subjugations. Lack of education is a primary cause of these inequalities, disproportionately affecting women. Highly educated women are often perceived as rude, uncooperative, and incapable of managing household duties, discouraging some women and their parents from pursuing higher education. This study aimed at assessing the effect of Open Distance and E-Learning (ODeL) in enhancing women’s access to higher education in Zambia. The study utilized a desk review methodology, examining relevant empirical literature to identify main themes and extract knowledge gaps. The study found that women are significantly marginalized by conventional learning systems at the university level, with restrictive socio-economic factors being the primary barriers to accessing tertiary education. The study further established that ODeL provide women with the flexibility to study while working and managing family responsibilities. ODeL helps women overcome constraints related to time, space, resources, and socio-economic barriers, significantly contributing to their empowerment. The study therefore recommends pursuing policies and programs to develop information and communication technology (ICT) and open distance education to broaden access to quality educational opportunities for women in higher education.