Facilitators and Barriers of Healthcare Seeking Behavior for Cutaneous Leishmaniasis and Leprosy in Kallu District of South Wollo, Amhara Region, Ethiopia

Abstract

Leprosy and cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) are preventable and treatable neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) that disproportionately affect impoverished populations in Ethiopia. Despite the availability of treatments, delays in healthcare seeking remain a challenge, hindering timely diagnosis and treatment and contributing to the persistence of these NTDs. Understanding the facilitators and barriers to healthcare-seeking behaviour is crucial for designing effective interventions to improve disease management and control.