Abstract
BACKGROUND: Sexual health is a crucial aspect of overall well-being, yet individuals with podoconiosis often face stigma and exclusion from healthcare services which promote sexual health. In Ethiopia, particularly in the study area, the Sexual quality of life (SQOL) of podoconiosis patients remains unexplored. This study aimed to assess the SQOL and associated factors among podoconiosis patients in Wolaita Zone, South Ethiopia. METHODS: A community-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 639 podoconiosis patients using a multistage sampling technique. SQOL-F and SQOL-M questionnaires (validated tools) were used to collect data via Kobocollect software. Generalized Linear Models (GLM) with a log link and gamma variance were employed to examine associations between SQOL and independent variables. Data analysis was performed using STATA version 14, with statistical significance set at p-value < 0.05. RESULTS: The total of 639 respondents were included in this study. The median SQOL-F and SQOL-M scores were 50 and 22, respectively, with 60.5% of females and 84.2% of males having low SQOL score. Factors positively influencing SQOL-F score included having an educated partner, having family and government support, healthcare accessibility, ability to move from place to place, positive sexual health attitudes, and middle-income status. SQOL-M scorewas negatively affected by having a partner in government or private work, additional chronic illnesses, shorter disease duration, and poor healthcare experiences, while family and government support improved SQOL-M score. CONCLUSIONS: Podoconiosis significantly lowers SQOL score for both men and women. Strengthening family and community support, improving healthcare access, and integrating sexual health interventions are essential for improving SQOL score among affected individuals.