UMA INTERVENÇÃO SOBRE A TOXOPLASMOSE EM TRÊS MUNICÍPIOS DO SUL DA BAHIA

A PERCEPÇÃO POPULAR DA DOENÇA

Abstract

Toxoplasmosis is a zoonosis caused by the protozoan Toxoplasma gondii, an obligate intracellular parasite, which can affect the most diverse tissues of homoeothermic animals. Despite its cosmopolitanism, toxoplasmosis is unknown to most of the Brazilian population. During an intervention project, the objective was to identify popular knowledge about toxoplasmosis in three municipalities in southern Bahia, Itabuna, Buerarema, and Coaraci, in 2016. A descriptive, quantitative and cross-sectional research was carried out, with extension characteristics, applying it to a semi-structured questionnaire previously validated by health specialists. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics. Between 66% and 90% of the study, the population is unaware of aspects of the disease, such as symptoms, transmission, and treatment. Compared to other regions and groups with a higher level of education, the data suggest that the lack of formal education and access to media campaigns contribute to the low level of information about toxoplasmosis. Actions for disease prevention and health promotion are necessary, especially in the formal education system.