ACCIDENTS CAUSED BY VENOMOUS ANIMALS IN CHAPADINHA, MARANHÃO: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF REPORTED CASES

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological profile of accidents caused by venomous animals in the municipality of Chapadinha, Maranhão, Brazil, from 2021 to 2025. This quantitative, descriptive, and cross-sectional study was based on secondary data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), obtained through DATASUS/TABNET. Sociodemographic and epidemiological variables were analyzed, including sex, age group, educational level, race/color, type of causative animal, anatomical site of the bite, temporal distribution of cases, and the time interval between the accident and healthcare assistance. Data analysis was performed using descriptive statistics with absolute and relative frequencies. The results showed a peak in reported cases in 2022, followed by a declining trend in subsequent years. A higher occurrence was observed among young and middle-aged adults, predominantly males, individuals with low educational levels, and those self-identified as mixed race (brown). Bites mainly affected the lower and upper limbs, especially the feet and legs, and were associated with occupational and daily activities. A high proportion of cases received medical care within the first three hours after the accident. These findings reinforce the importance of strengthening epidemiological surveillance and integrating preventive, healthcare, and educational actions to reduce morbidity and mortality associated with venomous animal accidents in the municipality.