Epidemiological characteristics of leprosy in elderly Brazilians and comparison with other age groups (2016-2018)

The article aimed to describe epidemiological indicators and characteristics of new cases of leprosy in elderly Brazilians in 2016-2018, compared to other age groups. A descriptive cross-sectional cohort study was conducted with data from the Information System on Diseases of Notification (SINAN). New leprosy cases were categorized by age groups: 60 or more, 40-59, 15-39, and 15 years of age. Pearson’s chi-square test was used to verify differences between groups. A total of 81,205 new leprosy cases were reported in Brazil. Of these, 24.1% were elderly, 37.7% from 40-59 years, 31.9% from 15-39 years, and 6.3% in individuals under 15 years of age. The elderly showed higher proportions (p