ECO-EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF LEPROSY CASES IN THE STATE OF MATO GROSSO DO SUL: A ONE HEALTH PERSPECTIVE

Abstract

Leprosy is a chronic infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, which primarily affects the skin and peripheral nerves. Despite advances in disease control, Brazil remains among the countries with the highest number of cases, facing persistent challenges to disease elimination. In this context, the objective of this study was to describe the eco-epidemiological profile of leprosy cases reported in the state of Mato Grosso do Sul between 2012 and 2023, based on the One Health approach. This is a retrospective and quantitative epidemiological study, based on secondary data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), provided by the State Health Department. Sociodemographic, clinical, and operational variables were analyzed using descriptive statistics in R software (version 4.2.2). A total of 7,962 cases were reported during the period, with a predominance of males (57.6%) and individuals of mixed race (47.1%) and white (36.9%). The most affected age group was over 50 years, and 83.5% of the cases were classified as multibacillary. The most common clinical form was indeterminate (27.5%). Most cases were identified through spontaneous demand (33.4%), and entry into the system mainly occurred as new cases (78.3%). Municipalities such as Rio Negro and Paranaíba had the highest incidence and prevalence rates. A significant proportion of physical disabilities and failures in bacilloscopy testing were also observed. It is concluded that, although there is a downward trend in case numbers over time, leprosy remains endemic in the state, especially in areas with poor socioeconomic conditions. The eco-epidemiological analysis reinforces the need for intersectoral and territory-based strategies, guided by the One Health paradigm, to support disease surveillance, control, and prevention—especially in vulnerable populations and high-incidence regions.