Peridomiciliary risk factors and knowledge concerning visceral leishmaniasis in the population of formiga, Minas Gerais, Brazil

ABSTRACT:

Introduction:  Leishmaniasis represents an important burden of diseases in tropical countries, with significant levels of morbidity and mortality where they occur, including in Brazil. In this context, popular participation in prophylactic actions can be decisive for the success of the control strategies.

Objective:  For this reason, this study aimed at investigating the population's knowledge concerning leishmaniasis and the occurrence of peridomiciliary risk factors associated with the population of Formiga, Minas Gerais.

Methods:  A household questionnaire with a sample of 427 individuals was conducted between May and July 2011.

Results:  Only 7.5% of the residents presented knowledge regarding leishmaniasis, most of them being women (OR = 3.15; 95%CI 1.30 - 7.65). The prevalence of peridomiciliary risks was 95%. A statistically significant association was found between higher education levels and less peridomiciliary risk factors (OR = 0.45; 95%CI 0.28 - 0.72) and between the place of residence and a higher number of risk factors (OR = 0.84; 95%CI 1.19 - 2.85).

Conclusion:  The results demonstrate that the population has low levels of knowledge about leishmaniasis. Moreover, the majority of respondents are subject to some peridomiciliary risk factor, which may contribute to the maintenance of the disease cycle in the city.

Keywords: Leishmaniasis; Knowledge; Population at risk; Risk factors; Disease prevention; Health promotion