[Self-reported morbidity by riverbank dwellers from Porto Rico, PR, Brasil].

Purpose: To investigate the self-reported morbidity rate of riverbank dwellers from Porto Rico, PR, Brazil.

Methods: The case study compared the self-reported morbidity of two groups of residents. The sample consisted of 63 individuals of the three affordable housing complexes of that municipality. Information was collected through home surveys, during the months of June 2005 and January 2006.

Results: Most interviewed subjects had a positive perception of their health. The main health problems recalled were associated with arterial hypertension, nervous system conditions, depression, heart and respiratory problems and assorted infections. Alcohol was mentioned more often by group B and tobacco by group A.

Conclusion: Health education, with emphasis on adopting healthy life habits helps in facing adverse health situations and promotes health.