Aspectos socioambientais e doenças relacionadas à água contaminada em comunidades vulneráveis no Nordeste do Brasil

Abstract

The aim of this investigation was to analyse the perception of waterborne diseases and socioeconomic and environmental aspects of Quilombolas in vulnerable communities in Northeast Brazil, as the research was conducted in three vulnerable communities located in this area. The study was sectional regarding quantitative approach and was carried out from September 2018–August 2019 through interviews with 164 individuals and the analysis of drinking water quality. The highest prevalence was intestinal parasitic diseases (57%), primarily Schistosoma mansoni (20%). The interviews revealed that 27% of individuals used drinking water from the general distribution network and 26% from a well/spring outside the residence. Of these, 39% did not undergo any treatment before ingestion. Of the 10 water samples collected for microbiological analysis, there was growth of heterotrophic bacteria (53%), faecal coliforms (50%) and thermotolerant bacteria (7%). Study participants were subject to environmental characteristics that made them vulnerable to health issues. The promotion of health actions and the implementation of measures related to the treatment and storage of drinking water are tools that can combat the occurrence of diseases.