Abstract: Objective: To identify the spatial distribution characteristics of newly diagnosed leprosy cases in Shaanxi Province from 2014 to 2023, and provide a reference basis for formulating leprosy prevention and control strategies. Methods: Statistical data of newly diagnosed leprosy cases in the province from 2014 to 2023 were extracted from the “National Leprosy Prevention and Control Information Management System (LEPMIS)”. Global spatial autocorrelation analysis, local spatial autocorrelation analysis, and hotspot analysis of disease-endemic areas) were conducted. Results: A total of 105 new leprosy cases were reported in Shaanxi Province from 2014 to 2023, including 75 males and 30 females. The age of patients was mainly concentrated in the 50-69 years old group. Global spatial autocorrelation analysis showed that the newly diagnosed leprosy cases in Shaanxi Province presented a clustered distribution in space. Hanzhong City had the largest number of newly diagnosed leprosy cases (49 cases, accounting for 46.67%). Conclusion: Leprosy cases in Shaanxi Province have a significant spatial clustering feature. Special research and targeted prevention and control measures can be carried out in high-incidence areas of the disease.

Key words: Shaanxi Province, leprosy, new case, spatial distribution