207,831 cases of leprosy were reported in Brazil, of which 4,069 in PB. Male patients predominated (51.38%, 56.57%) in PB and Brazil, respectively; as well as brown color (54.67%, 51.58%); and incomplete elementary school (44.11%, 49.13%). The dimorphic form was the most prevalent condition (PB: 25%, Brazil: 36%), with the majority of the patients diagnosed with multibacillary leprosy (PB: 52.93%, Brazil: 62.04%). Polychemotherapy with 12 doses was the preferred therapy (52.29%, 61.53%). The highest incidences occurred in 2009, 23.28 cases / 100,000 inhabitants, in PB, and in 2008, in Brazil: 24.35 cases / 100,000 inhabitants. Also, in 2008, there was identified a higher incidence in children under 15 years of age in both locations. Conclusion: A similar clinicalepidemiological profile was found for both localities, with a reduction in the incidence of leprosy in the studied period. However, endemicity remains high and indicates the need for a strengthening of epidemiological control actions to fight this disease. Studies such as ours, which outline the clinical and epidemiological profile of the patients, allow for a more accurate reality-driven planning of strategies.
DESCRIPTORS
Leprosy. Epidemiology. Health Profile.http://periodicos.ufpb.br/ojs2/index.php/rbcs