SOCIO-ENVIRONMENTAL CONTEXT AND PERCEPTION OF CHAGAS DISEASE IN THE ALTO SOLIMÕES MESOREGION

Abstract

The socio-environmental reality that disrespects social problems and their relationship with environmental problems become parameters for discussion and public policies. Thus, this study analyzed the perception of residents of the urban population and artisanal producers about Chagas disease and socio-environmental practices in the municipality of Tabatinga-AM. The techniques used for data collection were conducting an interview guided by a semi-structured form containing questions about Chagas disease and socio-environmental issues. The support used for field activities were colored images of the barber insect (triatomine) and etiological agent, informative folder and photographic record. From the documental survey, the information was acquired at the Health Surveillance Units and the Health Department in the municipalities where the collection was carried out. The study reached a total sample of 115 individuals, distributed among 100 residents of the urban population and 15 artisanal açaí producers in the municipalities of Tabatinga-AM. The general age group corresponded to 19 to 80 years and the gender that stood out the most was the female. It was found that all the two social groups interviewed were mostly unaware of Chagas disease, but had already heard about the transmitter of the disease because they were seen in palm trees and in the urban area of ​​the city. Therefore, educational activities of environmental awareness and health education become necessary for the prevention of this disease in the region.