Keywords
Health Knowledge
Traditional Populations
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Abstract
Objective: To assess the knowledge of patients and health workers about cutaneous leishmaniasis, identifying barriers that hinder access to diagnosis and early treatment. Methods: A descriptive study conducted between July 2022 and December 2023 in Sena Madureira, using structured questionnaires. A scoring system classified knowledge as unsatisfactory (0–3) or satisfactory (>3). Results: A total of 50 patients with clinical suspicion of the disease and 51 health workers participated — 63% Community Health Workers and 37% Endemic Disease Control Agents. Among patients, 96% demonstrated insufficient knowledge. The main barriers included long distances to health services (16% requiring 1–3 days of travel), river transportation (46%), and lodging in acquaintances’ homes (48%). Among health workers, 59% had satisfactory knowledge of general aspects, 35% regarding vectors and reservoirs, and 96% had insufficient knowledge about signs, symptoms, and treatment; 80% were unaware of the control program and 78% had not participated in training activities. Conclusion: The findings reveal deficiencies in knowledge and multiple barriers to healthcare access, reinforcing the need for educational interventions and the expansion of health services in rural Amazonian areas.
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