Health‐Related Quality of Life Among Cured Leprosy Patients in the Volta Region of Ghana: A Cross‐Sectional Study

Background Leprosy, caused by Mycobacterium leprae , can lead to permanent skin and nerve damage if untreated or if there is delayed treatment. Although multidrug therapy (MDT) has enhanced treatment results, stigma reduction and quality of life enhancement are still challenges. Despite progress, leprosy remains endemic in over 100 countries, including Ghana. This study assessed the health‐related quality of life (HRQoL) of cured leprosy patients in the Ho Municipality, Volta region, Ghana. Methods A descriptive cross‐sectional study was conducted between October and December 2023, among 35 persons with a lived experience of the disease who had completed treatment. HRQoL was assessed using using the EQ‐5D‐3L questionnaire, covering five dimensions: mobility, self‐care, usual activities, pain/discomfort and anxiety/depression. The visual analogue scale (VAS) was also utilised. Data analysis was performed using Stata 14. Descriptive statistics (mean and standard deviation) were used to summarise the data. Results Respondents ages ranged from 27 to 79 years, with a mean age of 55.8 ± 13.3 years, with a gender distribution of 51.4% female and 48.6% male. The mean VAS score was 0.57 (range: 0.30–0.92), indicating moderate self‐perceived health status. The mean EQ‐5D index score was 0.732. The most commonly reported problems were pain/discomfort (68.6%), difficulties with usual activities (51.4%) and anxiety or depression (48.6%). Overall, 25.7% of respondents were classified as being in perfect health, while 54.3% were in moderate health. Conclusion Leprosy continues to exert a lasting negative effect on quality of life, even after treatment completion, with persistent physical and psychosocial challenges. The moderate HRQoL observed highlights the need for integrated post‐treatment care, including chronic pain management, functional rehabilitation and mental health support. Addressing these dimensions is essential for improving long‐term well‐being and social reintegration among individuals affected by leprosy.