Guia educativo integrando práticas culturais e científicas para promover saúde e prevenir obesidade entre indígenas na Amazônia

Abstract

Introduction: Obesity has become a public health problem among indigenous populations due to factors such as sedentary lifestyle and dietary changes. This problem requires culturally and scientifically based interventions to promote healthy lifestyle practices. Objective: To develop an educational guide for health promotion and obesity prevention among indigenous people, combining cultural and scientific practices to improve the quality of life of this population in the Amazon. Methodological Approach: This is a study anchored in the foundations of methodological research, aimed at developing a technical and technological product. The study consisted of three stages (1) analysis of quantitative studies on the prevalence of obesity among indigenous people; (2) analysis of qualitative studies on educational interventions; and (3) development of a digital guide. Meta-analysis with a random effects model was used for statistical analysis and descending hierarchical classification for lexical categorization of the contents. Results and Discussion: Thirty-five studies on the prevalence of obesity among indigenous people in Brazil were analyzed, with results integrated in a meta-analysis that indicated high variability in the prevalence of obesity among ethnic groups. The qualitative analysis with IRaMuTeQ revealed four thematic classes that supported the structure of the guide: Food Culture, Educational Interventions, Lifestyle, and Intersectoral Support. Final Considerations: The resulting educational guide is a practical and culturally adapted tool, with potential for replication and regional applicability. It aims to facilitate the work of health professionals in guiding indigenous people on healthy lifestyle habits, promoting culturally appropriate care. The active inclusion of the indigenous community in the planning and execution of actions is essential to ensure the effectiveness of educational practices and health promotion among these groups.