CHW Central

A global resource for and about Community Health Workers

Brazil

Domestic and urban violence faced by community health workers: a multidimensional analysis in vulnerable territories in northeastern Brazil during and after the COVID-19 pandemic

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This study looked at how male and female community health workers in Brazil experience and notice different types of violence. It found that men were more likely to report and experience violence in public spaces, while women were more aware of domestic and sexual violence. These differences show that gender shapes how violence is seen and experienced. The study highlights the … [Read more...] about Domestic and urban violence faced by community health workers: a multidimensional analysis in vulnerable territories in northeastern Brazil during and after the COVID-19 pandemic

Engagement of Community Health Workers in the Amazonas in the Development of an Educational Technology: A Co-Design Study

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This study developed a training tool to help community health workers manage type 2 diabetes in the Brazilian Amazon. The tool included video lessons and printed materials and was created together with health workers to match their real needs. When tested, the workers found it easy to use and helpful for their work. The study shows that simple, well-designed training tools can … [Read more...] about Engagement of Community Health Workers in the Amazonas in the Development of an Educational Technology: A Co-Design Study

Effect of a Community Health Worker-Led Intervention on Physical Activity in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes in Primary Health Care in the Brazilian Amazon

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This study examined whether community health workers could help people with type 2 diabetes become more physically active in the Brazilian Amazon. Trained workers visited participants at home six times over six months and encouraged lifestyle changes, including regular physical activity. While overall activity levels did not increase greatly, the program helped many previously … [Read more...] about Effect of a Community Health Worker-Led Intervention on Physical Activity in Adults with Type 2 Diabetes in Primary Health Care in the Brazilian Amazon

Community Health Agents in the Family Health Strategy: 30 years of resistance and achievements

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This article reviews 30 years of Community Health Agents (CHAs) in Brazil’s Family Health Strategy, showing how they helped strengthen primary health care within the public health system (SUS). Over time, CHAs became a regulated profession, but their work faces challenges, including balancing administrative tasks with community care, reduced team presence, exposure to violence, … [Read more...] about Community Health Agents in the Family Health Strategy: 30 years of resistance and achievements

Improving Mental Health Knowledge Among Brazilian Community Health Agents in a Training Program for a Self-Reported Mental Health Assessment

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This study tested a mental health training program for 24 Community Health Agents (CHAs) in Brazil using the interRAI SAMH tool. After the training, CHAs showed improved knowledge of mental health topics, including depression, anxiety, psychoses, and suicide risk. They also felt more confident identifying and referring people with mental health issues. The results show that the … [Read more...] about Improving Mental Health Knowledge Among Brazilian Community Health Agents in a Training Program for a Self-Reported Mental Health Assessment