Brazilian youth free of Hansen's disease: a focused strategy to eliminate Hansen's disease among the 5 to 15 years age group

Abstract the article reviews the epidemiological profile of Hansen's disease among children aged 15 years and younger, the overall situation in Brazil as well as the World Health Organization's strategy to eliminate Hansen's disease as a public health problemo Despite an intensification of activities to eliminate leprosy over the past fifteen years there has been no reduction in new cases of Hansen's disease among children, especially in the high endemic states of the Amazon, Goiás and Pernambuco. This situation is due to the poor access to diagnosis and treatment because very few health services are in a position to diagnose and treat Hansen's disease. It is thus crucial to involve other health care providers in the diagnosis and treatment of Hansen's disease, particularly to include those who are in close and regular contact with mothers, infants and children, namely pediatricians, gynecologists, maternal and child clinics, general health services, etc. A broader network and improved geographical coverage of leprosy services will help ensure early detection and timely treatment of children, before irreversible nerve damage occurs, leading to progressive physical disabilities.