Living status of leprosy affected people in Wenzhou, Zhejiang

Objective To understand the living status of people affected by leprosy in Wenzhou, Zhejiang province, and provide evidence to eliminate leprosy hazards and reduce the disease burden caused by leprosy. Methods Based on national criteria and standardized method, survey was conducted among leprosy affected people registered in Wenzhou to collect their demographic information, including family status, work ability, disability situation, rehabilitation needs. Results Among 62 people surveyed, 43 were males and 19 were females, who were aged from 23 years to 91 years (average 63.7 years). Eighteen people lived alone and 57 people lost work abilities or only could do light physical works. The rate of grade 2 disability was 30.6%. The disability time ranged from 59 months to 635 months (average 298.78 months). Fifteen people take no basic protective measures. Conclusion The living status of the leprosy affected people in Wenzhou is poor. It is necessary to provide basic medical aid and living assistance for them to reduce the disease burden caused by leprosy and eliminate leprosy hazards.