Factors associated with leprosy knowledge

Abstract

Introduction: Leprosy is a disease caused by Mycobacterium leprae and represents a public health challenge, with a high prevalence in Brazil. Knowledge about the disease plays a crucial role in understanding the disease and behavior in relation to prescribed medication, where social factors are linked to health literacy. The aim of this study was to assess the factors associated with knowledge about leprosy. Method: Patients from fifteen Family Health Units were interviewed using an adapted knowledge assessment tool. Associations were made between variables using crude prevalence ratios and the Wald chi-square test. The analysis included Poisson multiple regression. Results: The study revealed that approximately half of the participants had very good knowledge about leprosy, with high levels of correctness in the areas of signs/symptoms and diagnosis. In addition, the final model showed that people with an income between 2 and 3 minimum wages were 75% more likely to have good knowledge of leprosy. Conclusion: Lack of information can result in late diagnosis and treatment interruption. Therefore, health education plays a vital role in the success of leprosy treatment.