LEPROSY IN BRAZIL: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL UPDATE AND CLINICAL APPROACHES

Abstract

This article sought to synthesize recent scientific evidence on leprosy in Brazil, describing epidemiological trends, clinical approaches, and social factors associated with the disease’s persistence. The methodology consisted of a narrative review based on observational studies, clinical trials, and epidemiological analyses published between 2022 and 2025, retrieved from databases such as SciELO, PubMed, and BMC. The results indicated a gradual decline in overall case detection in some regions, but persistent hyperendemic areas in the North and Northeast, a proportional increase in multibacillary forms, and substantial disparities in access to diagnosis and treatment. Evidence also highlighted the effectiveness of single-dose rifampicin post-exposure prophylaxis, the need for continuous antimicrobial resistance surveillance, and the importance of socioeconomic determinants, such as housing conditions and social vulnerability. It is concluded that addressing leprosy in Brazil requires integrated actions involving strengthened epidemiological surveillance, expanded access to early diagnosis, intersectoral social policies, and evidence-based preventive strategies to reduce transmission and move toward eliminating the disease as a public health problem.