Characterization of cases and epidemiological and operational indicators of leprosy: analysis of time series and spatial distribution, Piau state, Brazil, 2007-2021

Objective: To analyze epidemiological characteristics, temporal trends and spatial distribution of leprosy cases and indicators in the state of Piaui, 2007-2021. Methods: This was an ecological timeseries study using data from the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System, describing the spatial distribution and the temporal trend of leprosy using Prais-Winsten regression. Results: A total of 17,075 new cases of leprosy were reported. There was a falling trend in the overall detection rate [annual percentage change (APC) =-6.3; 95%CI -8.1;-4.5)], detection in children under 15 years of age (APC =-8,6; 95%CI-12,7;-4,3) and detection of cases with grade 2 physical disability (APC =-4,4; 95%CI -7,0;-1,8). There was a rising trend in the proportion of multibacillary cases. Spatial distribution of the average detection rate identified hyperendemic areas in the Carnaubais, Entre Rios, Vale dos Rios Piaui e Itaueiras regions. Conclusion: High leprosy detection rates were found, despite the falling trend of indicators, except the proportion of multibacillary cases.