EDUCATIONAL STRATEGIES IN HEALTH REGARDING LEPROSY IN THE SCHOOL CONTEXT: AN INTEGRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

This study aimed to identify and synthesize educational strategies in health about leprosy developed in the school context, through an integrative literature review. The search was conducted in the Virtual Health Library and PubMed databases, using controlled descriptors and Boolean operators. Articles published between 2016 and 2026, available in full text, in Portuguese, English, and Spanish were included. After applying the eligibility criteria, seven studies comprised the final sample. The results showed the predominance of active and participatory methodologies, such as educational games, workshops, interactive dynamics, and digital technologies, associated with improved knowledge about the disease, overcoming stigmas, and greater student involvement in the educational process. Youth protagonism stands out as a relevant strategy to enhance learning and broaden the reach of educational actions. However, methodological limitations were identified in the studies, such as the absence of long-term follow-up and heterogeneity in interventions. It is concluded that educational strategies in the school environment are effective, but require greater systematization and continuity to maximize their impact on the prevention and control of leprosy.