FATORES ASSOCIADOS À SAÚDE RESPIRATÓRIA DE USUÁRIOS DA ATENÇÃO BÁSICA

Abstract

Respiratory diseases represent a significant public health problem, with smoking being the main modifiable risk factor. At the Otto Marins Primary Health Care Unit, a high prevalence of smokers and former smokers was observed, indicating the need for targeted educational actions. The objective was to analyze the factors associated with respiratory health among primary health care users, considering sociodemographic, environmental, and health knowledge aspects. The methodology was based on a descriptive and exploratory study carried out with 12 users of the health unit. A questionnaire was applied regarding habits, family history, environmental exposure, and knowledge about respiratory diseases. The sample consisted of 12 health unit users, predominantly adults (58% aged 31 to 50). An important burden of exposure to modifiable risk factors was observed: half (50%) of the participants reported a family history of respiratory diseases, one quarter (25%) lived with smokers at home, and more than half (58%) reported habitual exposure to dust or mold in their home environment. From a clinical standpoint, it was found that 33% had a personal diagnosis of respiratory disease and 41% presented occasional symptoms, such as shortness of breath or wheezing. The intervention demonstrated that participatory educational actions strengthen the bond between the health team and the community, expand knowledge about respiratory care, and encourage self-care. The central role of Primary Health Care in health promotion and disease prevention is reinforced.