Community Perception and Knowledge of Buruli Ulcer in the Ga West Municipality Area

Abstract

Buruli Ulcer is becoming a Public health problem in tropical Countries prompting the establishment of a Global Buruli Ulcer Initiative by the WHO in 1998. The objectives of the study are to assess the community perception and knowledge of BU and the health-seeking behaviour of Patients. Quantitative and qualitative data were obtained by interviewing patients with this disease and control subjects in the Ga West Municipality Area. Common perceived causes were attributed to drinking from pond/river, swimming in rivers, wading in swampy areas, witchcraft and curses. Other reported causes were poor personal hygiene and sanitation. The common mode of transmission is by drinking contaminated water followed by body contact and through the wound of an infected person. Financial difficulties, fear of the mutilating aspects of treatment, and social stigma were the main reasons found for delay in obtaining treatment. Patients are reluctant to seek treatment outside their own community. In conclusion, suffice it to say that community perception and knowledge are major factors contributing to the health-seeking behaviour of Buruli ulcer Patients.