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Leprosy in Puerto Rico: a decade later.
1Department of Dermatology, University of Puerto Rico, School of Medicine, San Juan 00936-5067.
Boletin De La Asociacion Medica De Puerto Rico
|October 1, 1990
Summary
Leprosy incidence in Puerto Rico decreased significantly between 1981-1989, with improved treatment and community integration potentially contributing. A notable increase in foreign patients was observed.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Infectious Diseases
- Public Health
Background:
- Leprosy (formerly Hansen's disease) remains a public health concern globally.
- Understanding disease trends is crucial for effective control strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate changes in leprosy incidence and prevalence in Puerto Rico from 1981 to 1989.
- To identify factors potentially influencing these epidemiological shifts.
Main Methods:
- Retrospective analysis of leprosy case data in Puerto Rico.
- Comparison of incidence and prevalence rates with previous study periods.
- Inclusion of patient demographics, including nationality.
Main Results:
- 75 new leprosy cases diagnosed between 1981-1989, averaging 8.3 cases/year.
- Yearly incidence decreased to 1.9 per million, down from 4.6 per million in prior studies.
- Current prevalence is 5.4 per 100,000 inhabitants, with 16% of patients being foreign nationals—a significant increase.
Conclusions:
- Leprosy incidence has declined in Puerto Rico.
- Advances in treatment and patient community integration may be contributing factors.
- An increasing proportion of foreign nationals among leprosy patients warrants further investigation.