HEALTH SITUATION ANALYSIS OF THE POPULATION OF THE BOM PASTOR NEIGHBORHOOD: NOVEMBER 28 TO DECEMBER 13, 2022

Abstract

Health and disease have always been part of human reality and concerns throughout history. The epidemiological approach emphasizes identifying problems within population groups by characterizing ecological conditions (the agent-host-environment relationship) or the socioeconomic and cultural conditions of various groups. This study was conducted in the Bom Pastor neighborhood of the Huambo municipality, located north of the city, with the objective of analyzing the health situation of the Bom Pastor community between November 28 and December 13. It is a descriptive study employing a mixed-methods (qualitative-quantitative) approach. The method used involved administering a questionnaire to all visited families. To identify health determinants, risks, and adverse health outcomes, direct observation was used to assess the hygienic-sanitary characteristics of the dwellings—specifically: the presence of refuse in the yard, the presence of liquid waste, overcrowding levels, the presence of domestic animals, the educational level of family members, and the families' understanding of hygienic-sanitary practices. Variables were grouped into demographic, clinical, and hygienic-sanitary categories. The main health problems are largely related to determinants such as lifestyle, the environment, and the organization of health services. The population is predominantly young, with very few elderly people; this demographic segment is the most exposed to risks and the most affected by the various prevalent diseases. However, special attention must be paid to children due to their vulnerability.