Leptospirosis in Brazil: An Epidemiological Analysis of the Year 2023

Abstract

Leptospirosis is a bacterial zoonosis caused by the genus Leptospira, frequently associated with inadequate sanitary conditions. The objective of this study was to analyze, in the year 2023, data on the epidemiology of leptospirosis in Brazil, including the distribution of cases, cure rates, and mortality, as well as the demographic characteristics of those affected. To achieve this, research was conducted on scientific article platforms, along with data cross-referencing using information available in DataSUS for the preparation of tables and the conduct of descriptive analyses. The results showed that the Southern region had the highest incidence of cases, accounting for 36.7% of the total 3,318 records, while the Central-West region had the lowest rate, with only 1.8%. The demographic analysis revealed that men represented 81.2% of the cases, indicating a higher exposure to risk factors related to work and the environment. The mortality rate was 8.3%, highlighting the severity of the disease. However, 11.3% of the cases lacked information on outcomes, complicating the precise assessment of lethality. Improving data collection is crucial for enhancing epidemiological analysis. Strengthening the Unified Health System (SUS) is essential to address leptospirosis, allowing for the implementation of more effective prevention, diagnosis, and treatment actions. A robust SUS also facilitates epidemiological monitoring and the adequate allocation of resources, which are essential for reducing the incidence of the disease and improving the health of the population.