Characterization of the leprosy in the province Las Tunas, 2003-2023

Abstract

Introduction: Leprosy is a communicable disease caused by the bacillus Mycobacterium leprae. The World Health Organization includes it in the group of neglected tropical diseases. Although leprosy does not represent a health problem in Cuba —an achievement of the National Prevention and Control Program—, in Las Tunas province, late diagnosis prevails.

Objective: To characterize some epidemiological variables of leprosy in Las Tunas province.

Methods: A descriptive, cross-sectional characterization was carried out. The study population consisted of 158 reported leprosy cases in Las Tunas province from 2003 to 2023. Mandatory notification cards and epidemiological surveys were reviewed. The studied variables were new cases per year, clinical forms, sex, age groups, and detection method. The analysis of results was performed using incidence rate and frequency through percentage calculation.

Results: The incidence rate showed an irregular behavior, reaching its highest value in 2020, with multibacillary clinical forms predominating. The most affected age group was 25 to 59 years, although some cases were reported in children under 15 years. The female sex prevailed, and the most frequent detection method was spontaneous.

Conclusions: Active leprosy transmission existed, with late forms and detection of childhood cases. It is necessary to intensify actions that contribute to early case detection and their prevention.