Spatial and Temporal Distribution of Leprosy Cases in Rio Grande do Norte: An Ecological Study (2013–2023)

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the distribution and trends of leprosy cases in the state of Rio Grande do Norte, Brazil, between 2013 and 2023. A descriptive study was conducted based on secondary data obtained from the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS) platform. Descriptive analyses were performed, including absolute and relative frequencies, and trend identification using Microsoft Excel® software. Between 2013 and 2023, 2,906 cases of leprosy were reported in Rio Grande do Norte, with a significant average annual reduction (p<0.05). The highest prevalence was observed in men (55.1%) and middle-aged adults (40–59 years, 38.88%), followed by older adults (≥60 years, 31.17%). Children and adolescents (<20 years) accounted for only 8.36% of cases. The municipalities with the highest number of notifications were Mossoró (869 cases, 29.9%), Natal (370 cases, 12.7%), and Parnamirim (124 cases, 4.26%), while 68 municipalities reported 1 to 5 cases, and 24 recorded no cases during the analyzed period. Regarding the clinical forms, the most prevalent was the borderline form (31.5%), followed by the tuberculoid (24%) and lepromatous (23.7%) forms. Indeterminate notifications or those with missing information accounted for 15.9% of the total. A trend of reduction in leprosy cases in the state was identified, despite the persistence of regional disparities. The higher incidence in men and older adults highlights the importance of targeted strategies for early diagnosis and treatment in these groups, particularly in municipalities with a high disease burden.