Socio-economic indicators and environmental perception of fishermen of São Francisco do Conde - Bahia - Brazil

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the socio-economic, health and environmental perception of fishermen and shellfish pickers in São Francisco do Conde, Bahia, Brazil. It was interviewed 31 people aged between 30 and > 60 years and low level of scholarity (67.7%). Income of one to two minimum wages was observed in 55.0% of respondents, whereas 68.0% had no fish and/or shellfish as the only source of income. The public health system, and hospital and/or health center were used by 41.9% and 93.5% of respondents respectively. Cases of diarrhea were reported in 10.0% of adults and 14.0% of children. All respondents are concerned with environmental preservation, 54.0% consider trash a pollutant, and 97.0% are aware of the need for environmental projects for the recovery of the region's rivers. The artisanal fishing has not fulfilled the function of fisherman subsistence, forcing him to seek income alternatives.