Analysis of Newly Detected Leprosy Cases in China (1990-1998)
Title:
Analysis of Newly Detected Leprosy Cases in China (1990-1998)
Author:
Li W, Shen J, Chen X, et al
Address:
National Center for STD and Leprosy Control, Institute
of Dermatology, Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences, 12
Jiangwangmiao Road, Nanjing 210042, P. R. China
Source:
Chin J Dermatol, 2000, 33 (suppl): 6-9
Abstract:
Objective: To analyze the profiles of
case-finding and the clinical characteristics of new leprosy
cases detected during the years 1990-1998 in China. Methods:
Individual records of the leprosy cases were collected
by local leprosy workers and sent to the National Center
for STD and Leprosy Control to establish database of National
Leprosy Recording and Reporting System. The data used
in the study were based upon the database. Results:
A total of 19 453 new leprosy cases were detected during
1990-1998 with an average detection rate of 0.17/100 000
[(0.16~0.29)/100 000]. In the past 5 years, the detection
rate fluctuated between 0.14/100 000 and 0.16/100 000.
However, there were still 271 counties each with a detection
rate of (0.5~2.2)/100 000 in 1998 in China. The number
of newly detected leprosy cases in Yunnan, Guizhou and
Sichuan provinces accounted for 51% of the total number
of new cases in China. Out of the cases in this study,
about 70.8% had a definite history of contact with active
leprosy cases. About 95% of all cases were detected through
attendance in skin clinics, self-reporting, clue survey
and contacts monitoring. The numbers of cases with positive
skin smears and BI>4.0 accounted for 62.9% and 11.4%,
respectively. There were 11.1% of cases with single skin
lesion and 24% with Grade II disability. Conclusion:
Although the detection rate of leprosy in China declined
during 1990 and 1998, the leprosy problems should not
be neglected in some areas. It suggests that active case-finding
combined with passive methods should be recommended in
order to early detect and treat leprosy cases and prevent
disabilities.
Key words: Leprosy Case-finding Incidence
Language: Chinese
