CARMO, A. C. J.; http://lattes.cnpq.br/3591316861721175; CARMO, Ana Clara Julião do.
Abstract:
Leprosy is an infectious, chronic disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae and is
categorized according to the appearance, quantity and severity of the lesions as:
Undetermined, Tuberculoid, Dimorphous and Virchowian. It is considered a neglected
tropical disease, which mainly affects underdeveloped or developing countries, and is
considered a global public health problem. This study aimed to analyze the
epidemiological profile of leprosy in the Northeast region. The data used in the research
were obtained from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) linked to the
Information Technology Department of the Unified Health System (DATASUS) of the
Ministry of Health. Data were collected referring to all northeastern states through
sociodemographic and clinical variables such as classification, clinical form, degree of
physical disability, smear microscopy, therapeutic regimen. The chi-square test of
independence was used, with values with p<0.05 being considered statistically
significant. 127,228 cases of leprosy were reported, with a downward trend in the number
of cases in recent years. The states of Maranhão and Piauí had the highest prevalence
rates in the Northeast. There is a predominance of males, black/brown race, low education
and the most affected age group in adults (20 and 59 years old). The most frequent
operational classification was multibacillary and the clinical forms Borderline and
Virchowiana. These findings contribute to a better understanding of the distribution and
characteristics of leprosy in the Northeast region, highlighting the importance of control
and prevention strategies targeted at the most affected groups.