Leprosy in Brazil: an analysis of the stigma network and post-treatment quality of life in diverse socioeconomic scenarios

Abstract

This article addresses leprosy in Brazil, focusing on the stigma network and quality of life in different socioeconomic scenarios. The aim was to identify the association between the level of community knowledge and the intensity of social stigma experienced by cured patients in different geographic regions of Brazil. To this end, the epidemiological profile of the recurrence of leprosy cases between 2018 and 2024 was described, stratified by macroregion, gender, race, and age, in addition to assessing the intensity of social stigma and the sociodemographic and clinical factors that influence quality of life. The methodology employed a mixed epidemiological approach, using secondary data from national health systems for epidemiological analysis and primary data for the assessment of stigma and quality of life. The results indicated 204,978 cases reported during the period, with a higher concentration in the Northeast, Central-West and North regions, and a predominance in men, of mixed race, and in the age groups of 40 to 59 years. Leprosy demonstrated a strong correlation with areas of extreme poverty, highlighting social inequities. It is concluded that stigma persists as a significant barrier, and it is recommended to strengthen early diagnosis, educational campaigns, psychosocial support and intersectoral approaches to mitigate the disease and its social impact.