Program: Master’s in Science, Applied Statistics. Universidad de Santander, Colombia
Thesis title: Temporal Distribution and Factors Associated with Disability in People with Hansen’s Disease in Santander
Graduation year: 2026

Author: Diana Marcela Niño Pinzón

Abstract

This thesis aimed to determine the temporal distribution and factors associated with disability in people with Hansen’s disease in Santander. The data source was the Individual Notification Form for Hansen’s Disease from the National Institute of Health, which is reported to the National Public Health Surveillance System (SIVIGILA) for the department of Santander during the period 2010-2020.

A cross-sectional, analytical, correlational, and observational study was conducted. The study population included a total of 378 subjects registered in the SIVIGILA. The statistical methods used included univariate analysis and a binary logistic regression model to evaluate the association between age, sex, area of occurrence, biopsy, admission status, clinical classification, and days elapsed from the onset of symptoms to the date of case notification.

The results showed that age is significantly associated with a higher probability of disability, while the presence of a biopsy is a protective factor. The temporal trend analysis using the Poisson model demonstrates stability in disability over the years, with no significant differences. Overall, the results confirm the multifactorial nature of disability and the importance of timely primary healthcare interventions. The inclusion of behavioral and other sociodemographic variables is recommended to complement and deepen the understanding of risk dynamics and the effectiveness of surveillance and control measures.

Key Words: Leprosy, disability, associated factors, logistic models