Time trends in MB-PB ratio among untreated leprosy patients attending a referral hospital in UP, India during 2001 to 2010.

Abstract

Secular trends in incidence of leprosy serve as a powerful tool in determining progress in reaching eradication. However, the interpretation of these trends must take into account both operational and epidemiological factors. A study was done to assess a time trend in the ratios of MB & PB from 2001 to 2010 based on the leprosy patients registered in a referral hospital in UP, India. Data were analyzed based on the gender, age and residence. Regardless of these factors, MB proportion shows no significant trends. These findings are discussed and it is concluded that we are no more close to eradication as compared to the status over a decade ago. Hence, much greater efforts will be required to promote early detections of MB cases, whether children or adults, male or female.