[Epidemiology of cutaneous leishmaniasis in Diyarbakir (2002-2006)]

It is estimated that more than 1.5 million new cutaneous leishmaniasis (CL) cases occur throughout the world every year and the disease is endemic in southern and southeastern Turkey. The aim of this study was to evaluate the epidemiological characteristics of the CL cases reported in Diyarbakir. A total of 1990 cases were reported during the 5 year period. CL was most frequent in women (25.6 in 100.000) and in the age groups 5-9 and 10-14 (32.0 and 40.3 in 100.000 respectively). CL was most often reported in the Dicle (52.9%) and Hani (37.7%) districts; most were reported in the spring (47.2%) and fewer in the autumn (11.6%). It was observed that reporting increased after diagnosis and the quality of health services improved. Morbidity in Diyarbakir was higher than in the rest of Turkey. The higher prevalence found in children and in women was compatible with other studies. A difference from the other studies was that while morbidity decreased in the 15-44 age-group, there was an increase in the 45 or more age group. CL is endemic in the province of Diyarbakir. The fight against CL must be supported by special programs. Health education of the public and self protection measures should be encouraged along with a greater accessibility of diagnosis and treatment.