Spatial Distribution of Leprosy Cases Notified in a Reference Center in the Municipality of Várzea Grande – MT, Brazil

ABSTRACT

The spatial distribution can be mapped and analyzed for a better understanding of any disease’s involvement with any/ Brazilian population. The objective of this study was to analyze the spatial distribution of leprosy cases reported in a reference center in the city of Várzea Grande - MT from 2016 to 2019. This is an observational and descriptive epidemiological study, with an ecological distribution nature. The information was extracted from the SINAN form. For the epidemiological profile, annual leprosy detection rates and proportions were calculated according to clinical form, neighborhood, mode of entry, smear, operational classification, number of affected nerves and skin lesions and degree of disability. In the spatial analysis, the empirical Bayesian model of global smoothing was used, established with the aid of the software GeoDa 1.20. A municipal detection rate of 38.4 per 100 thousand inhabitants was observed, with a predominant borderline clinical form with 70.8%, 62.4% cases with more than 6 skin lesions, 45.2% without neural involvement, 36.3% with disability degree 0, 85.4% were new cases registered and 50.7% did not undergo smear microscopy. The spatial distribution of leprosy cases in Várzea Grande has been associated with a low population quality of life, which includes basic sanitation and access to basic units