Increasing Incidence of Bee Stinging in Brazil: An Epidemiological Study

Abstract

Background and Aim: Latin America is home of the highest biodiversity of venomous species globally. In Brazil, envenomation incidents are the second leading cause of human intoxications, surpassed only by medication-related events. Envenomation represents a significant public health issue due to their high incidence and potential lethality, classifying them as one of the major neglected tropical diseases. Among venomous animals, bees, particularly those of the genus Apis, are responsible for a considerable number of incidents. Bee stings can induce severe adverse reactions, including anaphylaxis, which can be fatal if not promptly treated. This study aims to describe the epidemiological profile of bee sting incidents in Brazil based on data from the national Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN). Methods: A descriptive and retrospective epidemiological analysis was conducted on bee sting cases registered in the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) in Brazil from 2013 to 2023. The data were categorized by region, gender, ethnic self-identification, work-related incidents, and classification of the severity. This information was compiled into electronic spreadsheets and statistically analyzed to identify trends and epidemiological patterns. Results: A total of 206,656 cases of bee sting were recorded between 2013 and 2023, with an annual average of 18,074 cases. An increase in the incidence of bee stings was observed over the years, with over 30,000 cases in 2023. Most accidents were recorded in the Southeast, Northeast, and South regions, where there is a higher concentration of apiaries. Although the number of bee sting cases has consistently increased over the last decade, mortality rates have fluctuated between 0.0034% and 0.0022%, showing no statistically consistent trend. The analysis showed that most cases occurred among men, reflecting the predominance of males in outdoor activities and beekeeping. Anaphylaxis was the main cause of deaths, with a low but significant mortality rate. Conclusion: The analysis of the recorded data highlights the need for specific public health strategies to prevent and treat bee sting incidents. Implementing standardized clinical protocols and improving access to prompt medical care in rural and remote areas are essential to reducing the lethality associated with these incidents. Raising awareness and educating the public about the risks and preventive measures are crucial to minimizing the impact of bee stings. Additionally, studies on regional peculiarities are necessary to determine the epidemiological risks and inform the public health measures required to minimize such events.