The impact of ear disease and hearing impairment on the lives of Nepali patients in Pokhara: a qualitative study
| Autor: | Christopher W. Metcalfe, Mica K. Skilton, Nicola Poole, Michael C.F. Smith, Thomas P.C. Martin |
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| Rok vydání: | 2015 |
| Předmět: |
Adult
Male medicine.medical_specialty Nepali Health (social science) Social stigma Hearing loss Social Stigma Ear disease Audiology Interviews as Topic 03 medical and health sciences 0302 clinical medicine Nepal Medicine Humans 030212 general & internal medicine Social isolation 030223 otorhinolaryngology Ear Diseases Hearing Loss Qualitative Research business.industry Public Health Environmental and Occupational Health General Medicine Middle Aged medicine.disease language.human_language Content analysis Family medicine Quota sampling language Female medicine.symptom business Qualitative research |
| Zdroj: | International health. 8(2) |
| ISSN: | 1876-3405 |
| Popis: | Background Ear disease in Nepal is a common problem which, left untreated, can cause serious complications such as hearing impairment (HI). Evidence shows that HI is associated with educational difficulties, employment problems and social isolation. Currently, there is little qualitative literature investigating the long-term impact of ear disease, and none specifically reporting on Nepali populations. This qualitative study explored the experiences of individuals affected by ear disease, with a view to informing hospital services and educational programmes. Methods A quota sampling technique was used, with 21 face-to-face semi-structured interviews conducted in Pokhara, Nepal during February-March 2014. Interviews were audiotaped, and verbatim transcripts were analysed using a conventional content analysis approach. Results Three overarching themes were identified: stigma, non-disclosure and barriers as a result of HI, stigma and non-disclosure. Stigma was both experienced and feared by participants throughout their lives, and as a result, they would not disclose their problem to friends, teachers and employers. Participants faced barriers in their education and work but did not receive the support they required because people were unaware of their condition. Conclusions This research suggests that a 'stigma cycle' has developed and that participants are being trapped within it. This impacts adversely upon individuals' personal, social and economic development, limiting the human capital available to Nepal. |
| Databáze: | OpenAIRE |
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