LEPROSY IN BRAZIL: HISTORICAL TRAJECTORY, ADVANCES, AND EPIDEMIOLOGICAL CHALLENGES IN THE CONTEXT OF SOCIAL INEQUALITIES
Keywords:
Hansen's Disease, Public Health, Social Stigma, Social InequalityAbstract
Leprosy, an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae, has a complex historical trajectory in Brazil, characterized by the juxtaposition of scientific advances, social stigma, and public policies. The objective of this work was to analyze the historical and epidemiological trajectory of leprosy in Brazil, relating it to social determinants and public health policies. A narrative review of national and international literature obtained from scientific databases was conducted. It was evidenced that, despite the reduction in prevalence, endemic foci persist in the North and Northeast regions, associated with socioeconomic vulnerabilities and failures in early detection. From compulsory isolation in leper colonies to the incorporation of multidrug therapy and the integration of the disease into the Unified Health System (SUS), the history of leprosy reflects social, medical, and political transformations. Thus, the eradication of leprosy depends on the integration of intersectoral actions, health education, and addressing social inequalities; therefore, strategies to reduce stigma are important to recognize the psychosocial dimension of the illness.
