Magnitude and temporal trends of leprosy relapse in the state of Ceará, Brazil in the period 2001-2018.

INTRODUCTION: This study analyzed the magnitude and temporal trends of leprosy relapse in Ceará in 2001-2018.

METHODS: Descriptive cross-sectional and ecological-time trend studies were performed.

RESULTS: We diagnosed 1,777 leprosy relapse cases. Higher prevalence of relapse was observed in men, illiterates, mixed race, multibacillary leprosy, lepromatous leprosy, and persons with visible disabilities. The proportion of relapse increased throughout the study period.

CONCLUSIONS: Leprosy relapse is prevalent in certain groups.