ENDEMIC DISEASES IN THE AMAZON AND THE CHALLENGES OF PRIMARY HEALTH CARE IN REMOTE TERRITORIES

Abstract

This article aimed to analyze the role of Primary Health Care in controlling endemic diseases in the Amazon region, identifying structural and organizational challenges that influence the response capacity of health services. It is an integrative review of scientific articles published between 2021 and 2024 in the SciELO, PubMed, and VHL (BVS) databases, combining the descriptors "Primary Health Care," "Endemic Diseases," "Amazon," "Leprosy," and "Chagas Disease." The results show that leprosy and Chagas disease remain significant public health issues in the region, exacerbated by social vulnerabilities, limitations in health service infrastructure, and difficulties in the early detection of cases. Primary Health Care plays a strategic role in health surveillance but faces limitations related to a shortage of professionals, staff turnover, and geographical barriers. The study concludes that strengthening Primary Health Care, through the expansion of health surveillance strategies and the professional development of health workers, is essential for addressing endemic diseases in the Amazon.