LEPROSY IN PRIMARY CARE: SURVEILLANCE AND DISABILITY PREVENTION

Abstract

This chapter analyzes the role of Primary Health Care in timely detection, contact surveillance, treatment, management of leprosy reactions and prevention of disabilities related to leprosy in the Brazilian Unified Health System. This is a theoretical-reflective study based on national and international technical and normative documents on leprosy, surveillance, clinical care and health care network organization. The findings indicate that, although leprosy has a predominantly clinical diagnosis and effective treatment available in the public health system, challenges persist regarding delayed diagnosis, insufficient contact investigation, professional insecurity in performing dermatoneurological examination, management of leprosy reactions and prevention of physical disabilities. The analysis highlights that eliminating leprosy as a public health problem depends not only on reducing epidemiological indicators, but also on the ability of Primary Health Care to identify clinical signs early, integrate territorial surveillance, address stigma, ensure longitudinal care and coordinate flows with specialized services. It is concluded that strengthening Primary Health Care, combined with continuing education, matrix support, improved records and prioritization of vulnerable territories, is essential to interrupt transmission, reduce disabilities and ensure comprehensive, equitable and humanized care for people affected by leprosy.