EDUCAÇÃO AMBIENTAL COMO ESTRATÉGIA DE PREVENÇÃO E CONTROLE DA LEISHMANIOSE VISCERAL NO MUNICÍPIO DE PRESIDENTE EPITÁCIO, SÃO PAULO, BRASIL

Abstract

Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) is a zoonotic disease of high public health relevance, whose incidence has increased in urban areas, particularly in socioenvironmentally vulnerable contexts. This study aimed to analyze the level of knowledge of the population of Presidente Epitácio, São Paulo, Brazil, regarding VL, as well as to evaluate preventive behaviors and the role of environmental education as a control strategy. A qualitative and quantitative exploratory-descriptive approach was adopted, with structured questionnaires applied to 100 residents and professionals from the Zoonosis Control Center (CCZ). Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Pearson correlation (α = 0.05). The results revealed significant gaps in population knowledge, especially regarding disease transmission, prevention, and treatment, with none of the participants reporting awareness of available treatment. A high prevalence of pet ownership was observed, associated with low levels of veterinary care and vaccination. The limited use of CCZ services was linked to lack of public awareness, representing a barrier to disease control. Correlation analyses identified consistent patterns of preventive behavior, particularly a strong association between veterinary care and vaccination, suggesting a cascading effect of health practices. Additionally, a high level of receptivity to educational initiatives was identified, especially within the school environment. It is concluded that environmental education, integrated within a One Health approach, is a key strategy to promote behavioral change, strengthen public policies, and reduce the incidence of Visceral Leishmaniasis.

Keywords: Visceral Leishmaniasis; Environmental Education; Public Health; Responsible Pet Ownership; Zoonoses.