Bassey Ebenso

In recent years, there has been a move towards understanding processes of stigmatization of leprosy, which has come from programme implementers and researchers alike. Currently, most of what is known about leprosy stigma emerges from surveys conducted with health workers, students and the views of the general public. Much of this research is epidemiological and applies stigma scales to measure the burden/degree of stigma associated with leprosy in diverse global contexts. Whilst epidemiological studies seek evidence-based solutions for improved treatment outcomes and ameliorating the impacts of stigma, they largely ignore the experiences of persons affected by leprosy and influence of cultural processes on stigmatization.

In response to a call in "The Lancet" for a new science of stigma (Keusch et. al. 2006), my research aims to capture the complexity of stigma by investigating the everyday experiences of people affected by leprosy in Yoruba-land, Western Nigeria. Fieldwork combines life-history interviews of those affected by leprosy with semi-structured interviews of non-affected community members and an ethno-linguistic study of the leprosy/stigma phenomenon. The study will contribute rich understandings of Yoruba ideas of leprosy, and illuminate how cultural processes intersect with general macro-social events to shape experiences and responses to stigma. It will also provide genuine theoretical insights for improving policy and practice.

Prior to beginning my PhD in Leeds, I had early professional development in organization of health care programmes in Nigeria, worked as disease control specialist for several years, then as a country director with The Leprosy Mission, an international NGO involved in Leprosy control in Nigeria. After completing a master of public health course from University of Leeds in 2005, became involved in research into health-related stigma. In 2008 I started doctoral research programme in the University of Leeds.
Supervisors: Dr. Nick Emmel and Prof. James Newell