“Effectiveness of Home Based Care Training Programme on QOL of Patients with filarial lymphedema of lower limb in selected rural areas of Khordha district, Odisha”

Abstract

Background: Lymphatic filariasis is the second common cause of physical disability.
Lymphedema has a negative impact on the quality of life of patients.
Objectives: To assess the effectiveness of home based care training program (HBCTP) on
quality of life (QOL) of patients with filariasis.
Methods and Material: One group pre test post test design study was conducted in two
villages of Khordha district during November 2019-January 2020. Total enumerative
sampling was used to recruit 44 subjects. Pre test QOL was assessed at baseline followed by
individual sessions of HBCTP. Subjects followed the steps of home based care for 2 months
after which post test QOL was assessed.
Results: A significant difference was found between the pre and post LFSQQ scores
(p<0.001). QOL was found significantly associated with age (p=0.004), marital status
(p=0.034), duration of swelling (p= 0.003) and grade of lymphedema (p=0.011).
Interpretation and Conclusion: This study supports the need for home based care to
improve the QOL of patients with filarial lymphedema