Temporal trend description and clinical-epidemiological factors associated with leprosy in Brazil

Abstract

Introduction: Leprosy is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, primarily affecting peripheral nerves, skin, eyes, and occasionally internal organs. Although treatable, disease progression without early diagnosis can lead to physical disabilities. Brazil is the second country with the highest number of cases worldwide, with the highest concentration in the Northeast region. Objective: To describe the temporal trend of leprosy in Brazil (2013–2023) and analyze clinical-epidemiological factors related to its prevalence. Methodology: This is an epidemiological, exploratory, descriptive, and quantitative study using leprosy data reported in SINAN (DATASUS). Records of Brazilian patients diagnosed between 2013 and 2023 were analyzed, excluding non-residents and incomplete records. Variables included year of diagnosis, region, state, sex, race, education level, among others. Data were analyzed using Excel 365. Results:During the analyzed period, 332,785 cases were reported, with 42.64% occurring in the Northeast region. The states with the highest prevalence were Mato Grosso (12.41%), Maranhão (11.80%), and Pará (9.73%). Most patients were female (56.94%), of mixed race (60.86%), aged between 50 and 59 years (19.10%), and had incomplete primary education (24.71%). Clinically, 73.81% were multibacillary, 61.09% had grade 0 physical disability, and 72.42% were undergoing multidrug therapy. A decrease in cases was observed over the period, with peaks in 2014, 2013, and 2018, and the lowest number of cases in 2023. Conclusions: The results highlight the importance of actions aimed at early diagnosis and leprosy control, particularly in endemic areas such as the Brazilian Northeast. The decline in cases may reflect improvements in control strategies, although challenges such as stigmatization and unequal access to healthcare services persist.