Leprosy in Sonora, Mexico: A 14-Year Retrospective Study of Clinical, Epidemiological, and Sociodemographic Characteristics

Abstract

Leprosy remains a public health challenge due to delayed diagnosis, disability, and persistent transmission despite the availability of effective treatment. This study aimed to describe the sociodemographic, clinical, and epidemiological profile of leprosy in the state of Sonora, Mexico, from 2011 to 2024. A descriptive, observational, retrospective study was conducted using data from the state leprosy registry. Sociodemographic, clinical, and epidemiological variables were analyzed through descriptive statistics, and annual incidence and prevalence rates were calculated. A total of 78 cases were identified during the study period. Patients had a mean age of 43.9 years, and sex distribution was nearly equal. Most cases occurred in urban areas, with Hermosillo and Cajeme accounting for the largest proportions. Lepromatous leprosy was the predominant clinical form (61.3%), and 72% of patients were classified as multibacillary. Disability at diagnosis was present in 66.6% of patients, while the mean interval from symptom onset to diagnosis was 47.8 months. Annual incidence and prevalence rates remained low but fluctuated throughout the study period, with new cases reported every year. Most patients reported probable acquisition within Sonora, and routine medical consultation was the main mode of case detection. These findings indicate that delayed diagnosis and disability remain major challenges in Sonora, highlighting the need for improved early detection strategies, strengthened surveillance, and enhanced medical training in leprosy.