Self-Reported morbidity in adults: Population survey in Rio Branco, Brazil, 2007-2008

Abstract

Introduction: Epidemiological data allow to know the needs of the communities and can provide subsidies for planning and actions in the health services, hence, it is necessary to investigate illness and chronic non-communicable diseases in the population of interest. Objective: The objectives of this study are to describe and verify the association between the most prevalent selfreported morbidities in adults regarding the characteristics: socioeconomic, demographic and lifestyle. Methods: This is a population-based survey conducted with adults (≥18 years of age), living in Rio Branco, Acre State, Brazil, during the period 2007/2008. The sample consisted of 1516 individuals, from a probabilistic sampling in two stages of a draw. Results: The most prevalent self-reported morbidity was spine/back disease with a percentage of 30.8%, followed by hypertension (28.3%), malaria (28.3%) and depression (18.7%). Regarding socioeconomic and demographic aspects, the most prevalent characteristics were: female gender and low level of formal education, with statistical significance. As for life habits, the most common characteristics with statistical significance were: smoking and physical inactivity. Conclusion: In view of the scarcity of studies of this nature in the North region of Brazil, and especially in the State of Acre, the results regarding the most prevalent self-reported morbidities in the adult population of Rio Branco are of fundamental importance, to alert researchers and health professionals. This contributes to a better adaptation and/or implementation of public strategies for promotion, protection and health assistance.