Análise dos casos de malária no nordeste brasileiro: 2009 a 2023.

Abstract

Malaria is an infectious disease caused by parasites of the genus Plasmodium, transmitted by Anopheles mosquitoes, and represents a major public health problem in Brazil, despite the fact that it is treated free of charge by the Unified Health System (SUS). The aim of this study was to analyze malaria cases in the Northeast Region, 2009­2023. An epidemiological, descriptive and retrospective study was carried out, with a quantitative approach, using data notified in the SINAN and SIVEP­Malaria systems (cases from Maranhão between 2012­2023), focusing on the following variables: gender, age group, ethnic group, schooling, species and Federation Unit (UF) of notification. The prevalence coefficient (PC) by FU was calculated and the chi­square test of independence was carried out, with p < 0.05 being statistically significant. The Northeast recorded 18,691 cases, with 16,607 in Maranhão and 2,084 in other states. Of these, 3,920 were autochthonous, with 3,485 concentrated in Maranhão alone. However, it should be noted that Maranhão has pragmatic initiatives aimed at combating malaria, such as the State Malaria Elimination Plan 2025. A seasonal pattern was observed, with notification peaks in January, May, June, July and December. The highest PC were in Maranhão (167.87), Piauí (14.36) and Sergipe (7.12). The Plasmodium vivax species was the most prevalent (85%), however, there are records of P. falciparum, P. malariae, P. ovale and mixed infections. Although cases were recorded in people aged between 1 and 60+ years, there was a higher occurrence (67.1%) in men of working age (20 to 59 years) (p = 0.001). As for the schooling of adults and the elderly, 59.6% had low levels of schooling (up to incomplete secondary education). In addition, 80.2% were black/brown. It can be concluded that malaria in the Northeast is associated with factors such as occupational exposure and climatic conditions. Despite the downward trend in cases, localized outbreaks persist, and public policies targeting vulnerable populations are needed, with prevention strategies adapted to regional particularities. Although limitations such as incomplete data may influence the analysis, the study provides subsidies to support health management, contributing to local malaria control strategies and raising awareness among managers and the community about its impacts.