SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF ENDEMIC DISEASE CONTROL AGENTS IN MONTES CLAROS - MINAS GERAIS

Abstract

Endemic Disease Control Agents play a relevant role in disease surveillance and control and are frequently exposed to multiple occupational and psychosocial risk factors. This study aimed to describe the sociodemographic profile and self-reported health conditions of these professionals. This is a descriptive, cross-sectional epidemiological study conducted between July and August 2024, in the municipality of Montes Claros (MG), involving 304 Endemic Disease Control Agents currently active in the role. Data were collected using a structured, self-administered questionnaire developed based on validated instruments and Ministry of Health guidelines (2009). Analyses were performed using SPSS 20.0 software, applying descriptive statistics. The results showed a predominance of males (82.2%) and an age range between 40 and 59 years (50.7%), with complete high school or higher education (80.6%) and a family income between two and five minimum wages (80%). Most participants had more than two years of professional experience (63.5%) and a stable employment relationship with the public service. Regarding health, self-reported conditions were more frequently anxiety, spinal problems, and hypertension. It is concluded that Endemic Disease Control Agents in Montes Claros present a sociodemographic profile characterized by consolidated employment ties and a high frequency of self-reported health conditions, reinforcing the need for institutional actions focused on health promotion, occupational health surveillance, and improvement of working conditions. The importance of multicenter studies to broaden the understanding of the living, working, and health conditions of these professionals is emphasized.