Leprosy in indigenous people in the state of Tocantins: case profile and trend analysis, 2001-2022

Abstract

Objective: To describe the epidemiological patterns of leprosy among indigenous peoples in the state of Tocantins, Brazil, by analyzing case profiles and disease trends from 2001 to 2022. Methods: Quantitative study using secondary leprosy data from Datasus, employing joinpoint regression analysis to identify significant changes in trends of new case detection over time. Results: A total of 180 new leprosy cases were diagnosed in indigenous individuals. There was a predominance of male cases (56.1%), multibacillary cases (63.9%), and the dimorphic clinical form (56.1%). The percentage of cases with grade 1 physical disability at diagnosis was 22.8% and grade 2 was 10.6%. The highest concentration was in the Medio Norte Araguaia health region (47.8%). The joinpoint regression analysis showed significant variation in detection trends, with a reduction in the general population of -3.3% per year from 2001 to 2015, followed by an increase and subsequent significant decrease. Among indigenous peoples, there was initially an increase followed by a significant reduction in new case detection. Conclusion: There is a need for disease control strategies. adapted to the cultural and socioeconomic peculiarities of the indigenous peoples of Tocantins. Evidence of active transmission and late diagnosis highlights the importance of focused and culturally sensitive interventions.