Rathish T.Pillai

Abstract

Objectives: To find out number of dermatology patients regularly using medications and coming for regular follow ups. Patients Methods: The study was conducted at dermatology outpatient department of a private medical college in South Kerala from August 2018 to October 2018. Data was entered in a pretested proforma which included age, gender, education, distance of residence from hospital, diagnosis, follow up dates given and whether patients used medicines and came for scheduled follow ups. Data was analysed by epiinfo software. Results: The study included 160 patients. 91(56.9%) were males and 69(43.1%) females. Out of this 53 patients (33.1%) were coming for follow up as advised and medicines were taken regularly by 43 patients (26.87%). Conclusion: Many patients with skin diseases are not taking medicines regularly or following scheduled follow ups Keywords: Adherence, Prescription, Follow up.

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Abstract

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease which has a potential for deformities and is associated with social stigma and discrimination. Changing leprosy scenario has led to requirement of change in leprosy education. A cross sectional study was conducted to assess the baseline knowledge, attitude and practices about leprosy among the first year medical and paramedical students of a Medical College in South Kerala. The study included 155 students. Data was collected using a semistructured questionnaire. Eventhough there was good knowledge regarding mode of spread of the disease among students, there is stigma towards even the treated cases.86.5% said that leprosy is treatable but most of them are unaware of the free MDT of leprosy. Study concludes that there are deficiencies in knowledge and persisting stigma regarding leprosy in the study subjects. Keywords: Leprosy, Multidrug treatment, Stigma.

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