Hansen's Disease in Children and Adolescents in Brazil: A Literature Review

Abstract

Hansen's disease carries within itself a history of stigma and exclusion.  The persistence of its association with leprosy, seen as contagious and incurable, still generates prejudice and psychosocial challenges, creating fear and anguish in those infected, especially children and adolescents. Here, we aimed to review the current literature regarding the impacts of Hansen’s disease on the lives of children and adolescents in Brazil. We verified that the diagnosis leads to multiple adverse impacts, aggravated by the family's handling of the situation, generating anxiety before the unknown. In the school environment, widespread misconceptions about the disease fuel prejudiced behavior, harming integration and interest in studying. The implementation of welcoming reception in the health care of this important social group emerges as essential to strengthen bonds and minimize gaps in care, while an inclusive and humanized approach to care is fundamental to promoting the well-being of this population, and professionals must adopt a ludic language to understand the world of children and adolescents.