Public Health Concentration Area

Research Project Title

“Impact of Environmental Sanitation on Dengue Incidence in Dili, Timor-Leste: A Cross-Sectional Study”

Project Objective

The objective of this project is to analyze the relationship between environmental sanitation — including domestic environmental conditions, presence of waste deposits, and access to safe drinking water — and the dengue outbreaks observed in the municipality of Dili, Timor-Leste.

We aim to investigate how these factors may contribute to the incidence of dengue cases in the region.

Methodology

Research Design

This project will be based on an analytical observational design with a cross-sectional approach. This approach allows us to analyze a representative sample of the population at a specific point in time, in order to identify potential associations between the variables of interest.

Sampling Technique

The study will use a probabilistic sampling technique, specifically Stratified Random Probabilistic Sampling. This approach allows us to divide the population of Dili into strata based on relevant characteristics, such as geographic location, and then randomly select samples within each stratum.

This method ensures that our sample is representative of the city’s diversity.

Statistical Analysis

To analyze the collected data, we will perform regression analysis using Multiple Correlation Analysis. This method allows us to evaluate the association between environmental sanitation conditions (independent variables) and the incidence of dengue outbreaks (dependent variable), while controlling for potential confounding variables.

Data Collection

Data collection will be conducted through household visits. During these visits, the research team will:

  • Inspect domestic environmental conditions;

  • Check for the presence of waste deposits;

  • Assess access to safe drinking water;

  • Record relevant information from the residents.

Expected Results and Impact

Upon completion of this project, we expect to obtain a clearer understanding of the relationship between environmental sanitation and dengue outbreaks in Dili, Timor-Leste.

The results could contribute to the development of more effective public policies for dengue prevention and control, thereby improving public health and the quality of life of the local population.

Additionally, the study results may serve as a basis for future research and interventions related to public health in Timor-Leste.

Research Team

The multicentric research team consists of five researchers from Timor-Leste and Angola:

  • Wilson Tavares – Co-Coordinator (Angola)

  • Dulce dos Reis – Co-Coordinator (Timor-Leste)

  • Joaninha Carvalho de Jesus (Timor-Leste)

  • Adriana Fonseca da Silva (Timor-Leste)

  • Leocádia Leong Sarmento (Timor-Leste)

Additional Note

Wilson Tavares, Co-Coordinator of the project, is an Angolan scientist currently working in the United States and integrates the research team in Timor-Leste through international cooperation in the field of public health.