Eletícia Alves da Silva Santos
Leprosy is an ancient disease and its history is marked by stigma, fear and prejudice, as it is contagious and chronic. When not treated early, leprosy can cause physical disabilities and deformities in those affected. This study aimed to analyse the importance of early treatment of leprosy, identify socio-economic data (gender and education level), understand the repercussions on self-image, distinguish the changes that occur in the professional field, and identify what knowledge those affected have about the diagnosis and treatment of the disease.