EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF MORTALITY DUE TO SCHISTOSOMIASIS ACROSS DIFFERENT EDUCATIONAL LEVELS IN BRAZIL FROM 2013 TO 2023

Abstract

The epidemiological analysis of schistosomiasis mortality in Brazil between 2013 and 2023 revealed a significant impact of educational inequality on disease outcomes. Although substantial progress has been made in treatment, with 60.527% of cases resulting in cures, the prevalence and mortality rates remain high among populations with lower education levels. Illiterate individuals had the highest mortality rate (8.59%), compared to higher educational levels such as high school graduates (0.475%) and university graduates (0.446%). This disparity underscores the role of education in access to information, treatment adherence, and preventive measures. The prevalence of schistosomiasis was more pronounced in socioeconomically underdeveloped regions, particularly in the Northeast, which accounts for the majority of cases in the country. Furthermore, the associated costs are substantial, including diagnostics, treatments, transportation, and productivity loss, heavily burdening public health systems. The study emphasizes the importance of public policies focused on education, basic sanitation, and the inclusion of health education programs in schools. Integrating these measures can reduce both the prevalence and mortality of schistosomiasis, fostering greater equity in treatment and awareness of the disease, particularly among vulnerable populations.