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Clinical Profile of Leprosy in Post-Leprosy Elimination Era in Kishoreganj District

Abstract

Background: Most countries that were previously highly endemic to leprosy have achieved elimination at the national level.
Objectives: To find out the pattern, prevalence and trends of leprosy in the post-elimination stage.
Methods: This study was designed as cross-sectional study. This study was conducted in the outpatient department of 250 bedded district general hospital and other Upazila health complexes in Kishoreganj, from 2013 to 2016 for a period of four (4) years.
Results: Of a total of 64 patients, males (60.9%) outnumbered the females (39.1). Majority of the study population were from low income group which was 53 (82.8%) cases. Paucibacillary (PB) and multibacillary (MB) cases were 19 (29.69%) and 45 (70.31%) respectively. Out of 23 people with lepra reaction there male were 3 (42.9%) cases and female were 4 (57.1%) cases found in Type I and in Type II were found 9 (56.2%) cases male and 7 (43.8%) cases female.
Conclusion: MB cases with grade 2 deformities are in downward trend and rates of children are declining. Most of the new cases detected are may be hidden prevalent cases. But this may also suggests active infection in the community and warrants resurgence of leprosy. This is probably due to fixed duration therapy of one year to multibacillary cases and discontinuation of surveillance activities .we should not be complacent at this stage because it may become a serious health problem again. By early detection and increasing the duration of therapy and increasing community awareness, utilizing Information, Education and Communication (IEC) at all levels, developing reinforced new therapies to curb reactions, contact tracing, especially of children, is essential. Domiciliary treatment needs to be made available to ensure early diagnosis.

More information

Type
Journal Article
Author
Alahi MN
Ahasan MA
Akhter T