Acute Chagas disease in an amazonian municipality

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the sociodemographic and epidemiological profile of cases of Acute Chagas Disease (ACD) in the municipality of Abaetetuba, Pará, between 2013 and 2023. Methods: This is a descriptive-analytical time-series study with a quantitative and retrospective approach, based on secondary data from the Brazilian Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN). All confirmed cases of ACD during the study period were included (n = 360). The variables analyzed comprised sex, age group, pregnancy, race/ethnicity, educational level, area of residence, and temporal distribution of cases. Descriptive statistical analysis, incidence rate calculation, and chi-square tests were performed, adopting a 5% significance level. Results: An approximately equal distribution between sexes was observed, with a higher frequency among young adults aged 20 to 39 years. Most cases occurred among individuals self-identified as mixed race, with low educational attainment, residing in both rural and urban areas. Temporal analysis revealed marked fluctuations, with epidemic peaks in specific years and months, particularly in 2022, indicating seasonal and outbreak-related patterns. Oral transmission emerged as the predominant route, strongly associated with the açaí production chain. Conclusion: Acute Chagas Disease in Abaetetuba presents a focal epidemiological pattern shaped by socioterritorial, cultural, and environmental determinants. The findings highlight the need for integrated public health strategies encompassing epidemiological surveillance, food safety, health education, and primary health care strengthening to prevent outbreaks and reduce health inequities in the Amazon region.