Estimate of hidden prevalence of leprosy in the Jequitinhonha River Valley - state of Minas Gerais

Abstract

The long clinical evolution of leprosy results in a late diagnosis and hidden prevalence. Estimating this prevalence is important to bring us close to actual prevalence, to define strategies and eliminate the disease. The objective of this study is to estimate the hidden prevalence of leprosy in the Jequitinhonha river valley in the State of Minas Gerais, Brazil. According to methodology proposed by the Panamerican Health Organization/World Health Organization, it was estimated that 328 cases failed to be diagnosed in the period 1998-2002. The results show that elimination programs are unable to detect all the cases in the area and show the need to intensify control strategies for its eradication.