FORTALECIMIENTO DE LA SALUD PÚBLICA EN EL CONTROL DE LA LEISHMANIASIS TEGUMENTARIA AMERICANA, EN REGIONES ENDÉMICAS

Abstract

American tegumentary leishmaniasis remains a persistent challenge for public health in Latin America, with particular incidence in endemic regions of Venezuela. The study proposed a strategic management plan for strengthening public health through the comprehensive control of American cutaneous leishmaniasis in the Costa de Oro municipality, Aragua state, with the aim of reducing incidence, improving early detection, ensuring access to timely treatments, and promoting the sustainability of health interventions. The research followed a descriptive field design, under the feasible project modality, applying a structured questionnaire to the at-risk population and analyzing recent epidemiological data. Findings revealed a sustained increase in cases over the last decade, associated with delayed diagnoses, limitations in health infrastructure, and low community knowledge regarding preventive measures. It is concluded that the implementation of a strategic plan—focused on health personnel training, community education, and inter-institutional coordination—is essential to reduce disease burden and improve the quality of life of affected communities.