[Evaluation of endemic leprosy in an urban zone--sampling survey at the household level: results at Bamako, Republic of Mali].

A sample survey on households was conducted in Bamako (capital of the Republic of Mali) in order to estimate epidemiological and logistical indexes relating to Hansen's disease. With a prevalence rate reaching 7.37 +/- 1.83 per thousand, a detection rate reaching 0.91 +/- 0.49 per thousand the city is a high level endemic area. All observed parameters (age, sex, racial, hygiene status, geographic distribution) seem to have no influence on disease aspect. The majority of the patients (80%) are treated by monotherapy with Dapsone, generally for excessive duration. The sociocultural impact of the Hansen's disease is very important, the physical and sensorial handicaps are frequent (34%). The survey's results could be used in order to elaborate a strategy for leprosy control based on multi-drug therapy in urban areas.