Itinerário Terapêutico e Vulnerabilidade Social em Adultos com Doença Falciforme

Abstract

The reconstruction of the therapeutic itinerary is a technology applied in the practice of qualitative research. This study intended to analyze the social vulnerability of adults with sickle cell disease, through the reconstruction of therapeutic itineraries. It is a hereditary, chronic disease, highly prevalent in Brazil, which can cause a series of complications throughout the life of the affected individual. In the survey, seven adults (five women and two men) with sickle cell disease were interviewed. The participants, selected intentionally, had in common a clinical and laboratory history of severe sickle cell disease (SS). The collected data were submitted to content analysis, in the thematic modality, applying the categories previously indicated: (a) Income, work and education; (b) Family, social and loving interactions; (c) Patient’s support groups. The results of the study show that the reconstruction of therapeutic itineraries make it possible to understand the various types of social vulnerability in the lives of these people, in the state of Alagoas, showing the differences and similarities in the ways of coping. The link between social vulnerability and receiving little information about the disease when having a medical appointment either/ both in school and work was also observed/ considered in this study. The inclusion of these individuals in social groups — social media, particularly — brought benefits such as source of knowledge, as well as a channel of communication with other people with a similar diagnosis. Therefore, therapeutic itinerary is an important tool for being aware and evaluate this analytical dimension of vulnerability and its linking with self-care regarding to health; identify the need for more effective actions aimed at educational, economic, social and cultural opportunities, and favor the affirmation of the experience brought by people with sickle cell disease.