Socioepidemiological profile of the marine-coastal zone of Guatemala

Abstract

The marine-coastal zone is an area where marine and terrestrial ecosystems interact, influenced by both natural and anthropogenic processes, with the latter having the greatest impact. Environmental degradation, biodiversity loss, and poor water quality directly impact human health. A socioepidemiological profile is often used to demonstrate these effects on the population. Aim: To contribute to the understanding of the socioepidemiological dynamics of the marine-coastal zone of Guatemala. Methods: Secondary data analysis using measures of central tendency and dispersion, ratios and proportions, incidence, prevalence, and mortality rates. Results: 61% of the population is under 30 years of age, the average schooling is 6 years, and only 38% are employed. Most households have access to drinking water and electricity, 55% cook with firewood, 70% burn their trash, and only 38% have sewage disposal systems. Overall, the prevalence and incidence rates of chronic and infectious diseases in the marine-coastal zone are higher than the national average, with Santa Rosa typically having the highest rates. Conclusions: The findings underscore the need for multisectoral interventions that address the social, economic, and environmental determinants of health, reducing inequalities and improving access to basic services and resilience to climate change.