Educação em saúde e busca ativa de casos de hanseníase em uma escola pública em Ananindeua, Pará, Brasil

Abstract

Objectives: To describe action for leprosy control through health education and case active search among school age children in a public school in the municipality of Ananindeua, Pará state. Methods: This is a descriptive study conducted in a public school including elementary school students. In October and November 2010, lectures on leprosy and other skin lesions were given in this school and then screening was performed with students that presented skin spots. From the total of 532 students involved, 55 were identified as suspected to leprosy. These students were taken to dermatological appointment including clinical examination and application of socio-demographic questionnaire. Results: The face (49%) and upper limbs (45%) were the main body areas presenting lesions. In most of the cases investigated, pityriasis alba (42%) and pityriasis versicolor (31%) were diagnosed. However, one case of leprosy (2%) was also found, in tuberculoid clinical form. Conclusion: Considering the scope of the study, the number of leprosy cases found is significant and confirms the high detection rate of leprosy in children under age 15 in the city. Epidemiological surveillance actions should be intensified in order to detect the disease in its early stage, contributing to enhancement in social participation by reducing the disease-related stigma.