Hanseníase: a perspectiva da mãe sobre a doença do filho

a perspectiva da mãe sobre a doença do filho

Abstract

Leprosy is an infectious disease that affects the skin and peripheral nerves. Children deserve special attention due to the difficulty and impact of the diagnosis. This research aimed to understand the meaning of leprosy in children from the mother's perspective. Qualitative, descriptive-exploratory study with data collection that took place between May and June 2019 in five Family Health Units in the city of Palmas, Tocantins. Six mothers of children with leprosy participated in the research, a number that was reached by data saturation. Semi-directed interviews were carried out, which after being recorded and transcribed, were evaluated by Content Analysis. Six thematic categories were organized: diagnosis of leprosy in children, effects resulting from treatment, children's feelings about the disease, mothers' feelings about their children's disease, prejudices about the disease and care for people with leprosy by health professionals. From the perspective of the mothers, the diagnosis of leprosy in their children generates negative feelings that, in general, lessen with time. The treatment causes adverse reactions that can compromise, in different ways, the child's life. In addition, leprosy is a stigmatized disease, a point that deserves attention from students and health professionals.