CHAGAS DISEASE IN BRAZIL: EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS AND EVALUATION OF HEALTH EDUCATION STRATEGIES IN LIGHT OF THE SOCIAL DETERMINANTS OF HEALTH

Abstract

Chagas disease remains a significant public health problem in Brazil, strongly influenced by social, economic, and environmental determinants. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological profile of the disease in the country and to evaluate health education strategies in light of the social determinants of health. It is an integrative review with an epidemiological approach, conducted through searches in the SciELO, PubMed, and Latindex databases, as well as official documents, covering the period from 2022 to 2026. The findings revealed a heterogeneous distribution of the disease, with higher concentration in the North and Northeast regions, predominance among adults and  older  individuals,  and association with low educational levels and racially vulnerable populations. A transition in transmission patterns was also observed, particularly the increase in oral transmission in specific regions. Regarding health education, participatory and context-sensitive strategies demonstrated greater effectiveness, although challenges related to continuity, intersectoral articulation, and sociocultural adequacy persist. It is concluded that the persistence of Chagas disease is directly linked to social inequalities, highlighting the need to strengthen integrated public policies focused on health education and equity. This study contributes to a broader understanding of the disease and supports the development of more effective control strategies.