ANALYSIS OF THE SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL DISTRIBUTION OF CASES OF LEPROSY DIAGNOSED IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF SÃO LUÍS, MARANHÃO, BRAZIL
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17564/2316-3798.2025v10n1p631-645
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Abstract
Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae. It is highly contagious, mainly affecting the skin and peripheral nerves. Its morbidity is considered low, since a large part of the population is naturally resistant to the disease. This study aims to analyze the spatial and temporal distribution of new cases of leprosy, reported in the National System of Notifiable Diseases (SINAN), from 2012 to 2022, in the municipality of São Luís, capital of the state of Maranhão. The epidemiological and spatial variables were analyzed, totaling 4,889 new cases reported during this period. New cases in children under 15 years of age were 485 cases. The detection rate in children under 15 years of age showed variation, with the highest being 32.80 in 2015 and the lowest 5.30 in 2021. The circulation of the bacillus is maintained. The geographic distribution shows the persistence of the disease, heterogeneous distribution, changes in the spatial pattern over the period and configuration of clusters of cases in health districts with urban characteristics. It is expected that, in addition to knowledge of the spatial distribution of leprosy in São Luís, this study will contribute to directing effective surveillance actions, with a view to early diagnosis, reduction of disabilities and control of leprosy.
