Detecção de casos novos de Hanseníase na Paraíba de 2018 a 2022: análise da distribuição espacial, perfil geral dos afetados e dos indivíduos com incapacidades físicas

Abstract

Introduction: Leprosy, one of the oldest diseases in the world, is infectious and neurodermatological. In Brazil, a leading country in the global burden, there is a heterogeneous distribution of cases, with Paraíba being one of the states with high detection rates. Objective: To outline the panorama of Leprosy in Paraíba, analyzing indicators of detection and spatial distribution of cases; profile of affected individuals in the state, between 2018 and 2022; and risk factors for physical disabilities. Methodology: Ecological study, with data reported in the state of Paraíba (2018 to 2022), made available by the State Department of Health. Notification, sociodemographic and clinical-functional data were collected. Indicators to assess the magnitude of the disease and services quality were considered. In addition to the descriptive analysis, spatial analysis was performed using the Global and Local Moran Index, with graphical representation via Local Indicators of Spatial Association. To identify risk factors associated with physical disability, multiple logistic regression models were constructed. The study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the State University of Paraíba (opinion 6,272,604). Results: 2,291 new cases were reported in Paraíba. The state presented medium and high annual detection rates and proportion of new cases with Physical Disability Grade 2 at diagnosis. Spatial analysis indicated heterogeneity in distribution, with formation of clusters and significant spatial autocorrelation. The most common sociodemographic and epidemiological profile in the general population was male, brown, of working age, with low education; with multibacillary leprosy and without nerve injuries or physical disabilities. Among those with physical disabilities, the elderly were most affected, with polyneuropathies predominating. Clinical form and number of nerve injuries were risk factors for disability. Conclusions: The data indicate the need for coordination of control actions, considering municipal specificities and target audiences. It is suggested to include leprosy in the actions of Men's and Elderly Health; as well as professional training and implementation of specific indicators for the elderly.