Spaciality of Human Visceral Leishmaniasis in the State of Maranhão, Brazil

Abstract

Objective: the study analyzed the spatio-temporal and epidemiological behavior of HVL in the state of Maranhão, between 2010 and 2020.   Theoretical framework: In Brazil, HVL is one of several diseases with compulsory notification, and is registered in 21 Federation Units, establishing itself in the five Brazilian regions. The Northeast region has the highest number of recorded cases, considered a focus of transmission of the disease, with Maranhão being one of the states with the highest occurrence.   Method: the study used secondary data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System. The incidence rate, lethality rate, mortality rate, Odds Ratio and Annual Increment Rate were calculated.   Results and conclusions: pointed to an endemic scenario of the disease. The predominant profile was male, aged between 1 and 9 years old, brown color/race, primary education and urban residence area. It is necessary to monitor the environment where vectors are present to control them and reduce the possibility of illness.   Implications: the study is relevant as it contributes with epidemiological data and health indicators from an endemic region, so that health authorities can implement surveillance actions, health education and carry out public health interventions respecting socioeconomic differences and local environmental.   Novelty: the identification of areas at risk for the disease in a given region allows us to know their spatiality, the population's chances of becoming ill and the rate of increase in the disease.