Epidemiologic aspects and spatial distribution of human visceral leishmaniasis: a cross-sectional study, Crateús, 2007-2023

Abstract

Objective: To investigate the epidemiological profile and spatial distribution of human visceral leishmaniasis cases in Crateús, Ceará, Brazil, from 2007 to 2023. Methods: This was a retrospective, descriptive cross-sectional study based on epidemiologic data from the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System regarding human visceral leishmaniasis in Crateús between 2007 and 2023. The variables assessed were sex, age group at the time of diagnosis, race/skin color, education level, HIV coinfection, case outcome, neighborhood of residence, area of residence, and number of deaths per year of notification. Relative frequency, incidence, and lethality rates were calculated; maps were created to reflect the spatial distribution of cases within the municipality. Results: Between 2007 and 2023, 112 cases of visceral leishmaniasis were reported in Crateús, predominantly among males (n=77), brown-skinned individuals (n=81), aged 20-39 years (n=27), with incomplete elementary education (n=31), and residing in urban areas of the municipality (n=88). The incidence rate decreased from 22.81 in 2007 to 16.02 in 2008, with a peak of 14.67 in 2018; by 2023, the incidence rate had dropped to 10.47. There were four cases of HIV coinfection and two deaths directly attributable to the disease. Conclusion: Cases of visceral leishmaniasis in Crateús were concentrated in the urban area of the municipality. The epidemiologic profile was consistent with national trends, with the most affected individuals being of mixed race/skin color, male, aged 20-39 years, and with incomplete elementary education.