Saneamento básico nos bairros Jardim Piratininga e Vila dos Criadores, Zona Noroeste, Santos-SP, e prevalência de parasitose intestinais e anemia : uma abordagem mista

Abstract

Introduction: We will embark on a research journey to unravel the intricate relationship between basic sanitation and health conditions. Exploring sanitation elements, such as water supply and waste management, associated with a set of qualitative categories such as: housing, food and transportation, to understand their impact on the well-being of the local community. Objective: To analyze the impact of basic sanitation on the living conditions of residents of Jardim Piratininga and Vila dos Criadores, Northwest Zone of the City of Santos, São Paulo, and the prevalence of parasitosis. Methodologies: An investigation on the relationship between basic sanitation and the prevalence of intestinal parasitosis and anemia, aiming to understand aspects of public health related to sanitation. Using a mixed research method, quantitative data were collected between 2019 and 2022, including statistical analyses of sanitation conditions and interviews with 110 adult residents (>18 years old) of each neighborhood, following the local age distribution. In this Cross-Sectional Observational Study, data from medical records were also conducted to identify intestinal parasites and hematometric and leukocyte alterations in residents. In addition, demographic data questionnaires were applied and validated for the study. The prevalence of intestinal parasites and anemia by location was estimated, and associated factors were investigated using logistic regression models. In the qualitative approach, carried out between February and April 2023, more subjective data were collected through interviews to assess clinical phenomena related to the social context, using Grounded Theory addressing categories such as housing, food, and transportation. Quantitative Results: They revealed a significantly higher prevalence of intestinal parasites in Vila dos Criadores, with 28 affected residents. The main infections found were Ascaris lumbricoides (6.48%), Hookworm (4.63%), and Pinworm (2.78%), in addition to cases of polyparasitism. In Jardim Piratininga, 8 positive cases were identified, with a lower prevalence: Ascaris (1.85%), Giardia Lamblia (0.93%), and Schistosoma Mansoni (0.93%). Eosinophilia was observed in all patients with worm infestation, totaling 36 cases in the territory. Qualitative Results: emerged from the interviews that highlighted the impacts of social inequalities on housing conditions, public transportation, and food. Economic issues showed adaptation in housing and community ties. Concerns about human mobility and public transportation prices were highlighted, as well as nutritional impacts and food insecurity, affecting the quality of life of residents. Conclusion: The lack of basic sanitation in Vila dos Criadores contributes to high rates of intestinal parasites and eosinophilia, highlighting the urgent need for improvements in the health infrastructure to reduce social inequalities. Poor communities face difficulties in moving around, poor housing and limited access to quality food, contributing to their social vulnerability and negatively impacting their health. The integration of quantitative and qualitative data provided valuable insights for the formulation of public policies and allowed a more comprehensive understanding of the results, seeking to facilitate better interventions in basic sanitation, not only in these communities, but in similar areas, aiming to improve the living conditions and health of vulnerable populations.