Acute Chagas Disease Cases in Northeastern Brazil: An Ecological Study from 2010 to 2022

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Chagas Disease (CD) is a parasitic infection endemic in the Americas with significant epidemiological importance. This study aimed to analyze the cases of Acute Chagas Disease in Northeast Brazil between 2010 and 2022, based on data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN/NET). METHODOLOGY: This is an observational, cross-sectional, and descriptive study that used secondary data to evaluate the distribution of cases by state, year, and incidence rate. RESULTS: Between 2010 and 2022, 134 confirmed cases of Acute Chagas Disease were recorded in Northeast Brazil, with emphasis on the states of Maranhão and Pernambuco, which accounted for over 70% of the cases. The distribution by year was irregular, with peaks in 2018 and 2019, while 2014, 2017, and 2020 showed very low numbers. The incidence rate fluctuated, peaking in 2019, with a decline in 2021 and recovery in 2022. DISCUSSION: The analysis of the results reveals an unequal geographical distribution, suggesting that socio-economic and environmental factors influence the spread of the disease. The significant fluctuation in notification numbers over the years can be explained by factors such as gaps in surveillance and difficulties in completing notifications, as well as possible underreporting. The sharp decline in 2021 may be attributed to the COVID-19 pandemic, which affected the healthcare system and the notification of other diseases. CONCLUSION: The study emphasizes the need to intensify surveillance and control actions, focusing on the most vulnerable endemic areas. The analysis suggests that improving access to healthcare, strengthening epidemiological surveillance, and raising awareness about the disease are essential to reduce incidence and ensure equitable healthcare provision.