Possible Impact of the Construction of the Belo Monte Hydroelectric Power Plant on Cases of Congenital Syphilis in the Xingu Region

Abstract

Syphilis is considered a serious public health problem in Brazil and worldwide. The disease is especially worrying during pregnancy, as the mother can transmit the infection to her fetus, causing congenital syphilis. In this context, few articles have established a causal relationship between the growth in the number of cases of gestational and congenital syphilis in the Xingu Region and the construction of the Belo Monte Hydroelectric Plant. Objective: This study aims to analyze the influence of the intense migratory flow resulting from the construction of the Belo Monte Hydroelectric Power Plant on the cases of congenital syphilis. Methodology: This is an ecological study of congenital syphilis reported in the Xingu Region from January 2007 to 2019, using data obtained from the Information System of Notification Grievances. Results: It was found that there was an influence of the construction of the Belo Monte hydroelectric plant on the number of cases of congenital syphilis in the region.294 cases of congenital syphilis were reported. The most affected pregnant women were between 16 and 20 years old, were brown, had incomplete primary education and lived in the urban area. The study revealed numerous shortcomings in prenatal care provided in the Xingu Region.