ANÁLISE EPIDEMIOLÓGICA DOS CASOS DE LEISHMANIOSE VISCERAL NO BRASIL NO PERÍODO DE 2013 A 2022: UM ESTUDO ECOLÓGICO

Abstract

Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL), also known as Kala-azar, is a zoonotic disease considered a global public health problem, being one of the seven priorities for the World Health Organization (WHO). In cases of untreated or late diagnosis, the disease progresses to the point of reaching high levels of mortality. Thus, the present study aims to provide an epidemiological analysis of Visceral Leishmaniasis cases in the last 10 years in Brazilian regions. It is an ecological observational and temporal study. Epidemiological and socioeconomic data for the research were collected in May 2024 through consultations using secondary data from reported cases of Visceral Leishmaniasis from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), for the period between 2013 and 2022. Analysis of the data collected through the DATASUS platform revealed that visceral leishmaniasis affects males more, those of mixed race, individuals aged between 20 and 39 years, and individuals with educational levels between the 5th and 8th grade incomplete. A national pattern was also identified, where the year 2017 had the highest prevalence rate of the disease. Therefore, epidemiological surveillance programs, vector control, and health education are essential to reduce the incidence of VL and its consequences, thus ensuring a comprehensive and effective approach in the fight against this endemic disease.