Epidemiological profile of new Tuberculosis cases in Maranhão 2014-2023

Wed, 03 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Background: Tuberculosis (TB) is a public health problem, with 10.7 million new cases in 2024. In Brazil, there were 84,308 cases, with Maranhão standing out, where socioeconomic factors contribute to the high incidence of the disease. Aim: To describe the epidemiological profile of new TB cases reported in Maranhão in a 10-year historical series. Methods: Descriptive study on TB cases between 2014 and 2023, using data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN). The study analyzed variables such as sex, age group, race, education level, clinical form, HIV testing, directly observed treatment (DOT), and treatment closure status. Results: During the study period, 21,916 cases of TB were registered in Maranhão. The new cases were predominantly male (65.91%), of mixed race (71.64%), of working age (20 to 59 years), and with low levels of education (50.43%). Furthermore, 89.62% had the pulmonary form of the disease, 7.98% tested positive for HIV, and only 21.65% underwent directly observed treatment (DOT). Regarding case outcomes, 70.25% were cured and 11.17% abandoned treatment. Conclusions: The profile of TB in Maranhão (men, mixed race, low education level, and pulmonary form) reflects social inequities. The low coverage of DOT (Directly Observed Therapy) and the high abandonment rate highlight the urgency of strengthening control actions and adherence to treatment in the state.

Development and physicochemical analysis of the Cyrtocymura scorpioides (Lam.) H. Rob extract and its in vitro antimicrobial evaluation

Fri, 05 Jun 2026 00:00:00 -0300

Background: Species of the Asteraceae family are being extensively investigated as prolific sources of bioactive compounds for dermatological applications, given the rising global demand for natural ingredients with a reduced environmental impact. Aim: The present study aimed to obtain and characterise the hydroalcoholic extract of Cyrtocymura scorpioides (known locally as Piracá) and to evaluate its antimicrobial activity against Staphylococcus aureus, Escherichia coli, Candida albicans, Aspergillus niger and Trichophyton interdigitale. Methods: Leaves and stems were collected and processed. The resulting extract was characterised in terms of pH, density, viscosity, and colour, following the ANVISA guidelines, and subsequently tested using an agar-based microbiological screening assay and a 96-well plate microdilution assay to determine the Minimum Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) and the Minimum Bactericidal/Fungicidal Concentrations (MBC/MFC). Results: The product exhibited a slightly acidic pH and physicochemical properties which were deemed compatible with cosmetic formulations. A bactericidal effect was observed against S. aureus, alongside partial growth inhibition of E. coli. For the fungi, fungistatic activity was confirmed against C. albicans and A. niger, with a fungicidal effect achieved against T. interdigitale. Conclusions: These findings indicate the presence of compounds possessing antimicrobial potential, thereby suggesting the feasibility of the C. scorpioides extract as a functional ingredient in topical cosmetic products.

Disciplinarum Scientia | Saúde

Epidemiological profile of new Tuberculosis cases in Maranhão 2014-2023

Development and physicochemical analysis of the Cyrtocymura scorpioides (Lam.) H. Rob extract and its in vitro antimicrobial evaluation