ANALYSIS OF THE TREND IN MORTALITY RATES AND NUMBER OF DEATHS DUE TO SEPSIS AND SKIN AND SUBCUTANEOUS TISSUE INFECTIONS IN BRAZIL, BY REGIONS AND AGE GROUP FROM 2019 TO 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Sepsis is a serious organ dysfunction caused by a dysregulated infection in the body, resulting in a systemic inflammatory response. Early diagnosis is essential to increase patient survival, based on symptoms such as fever, tachypnea, and leukocytosis, along with criteria such as elevated respiratory rate, altered consciousness, and low blood pressure. Sepsis is a condition that can affect people of all ages, with a higher incidence in newborns, the elderly, and individuals with immunosuppression. Skin and soft tissue infections are serious inflammatory processes that can lead to high morbidity and mortality, especially in children. The skin is the primary barrier against infection, but when it fails, microorganisms can proliferate and cause inflammation. In severe cases, the infection can spread through the bloodstream, causing sepsis and affecting multiple organs. Early diagnosis and treatment of these infections is essential to avoid complications. Objective: To analyze the absolute number of deaths and the mortality rate from sepsis and skin and subcutaneous tissue infections by age from January 2019 to January 2024. Using these data, we compare variations in the number of deaths and mortality rates in different regions of Brazil. Method: A cross-sectional study with a quantitative approach on the trends in the mortality rate and number of deaths from sepsis and skin and subcutaneous tissue infections, performing a quantitative comparative analysis from January 2019 to January 2024, by region of Brazil and by age group. Data collection was conducted through the SUS Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS), hosted by DATASUS, via the TABNET system, in March 2024. Results: The North and Northeast regions tend to lead mortality rates among children under 1 year of age due to their lower standard of living. However, among other age groups, the Southeast has assumed this role over the years, possibly due to greater access to health services for the population in this region. By analyzing absolute numbers, without considering population, these figures serve as an internal assessment of the region, without comparison with other regions of Brazil, since the Southeast has a large population and the Northeast has the largest number of states; therefore, these regions likely serve a greater number of healthy and sick individuals. Analyzing population-adjusted mortality rates provides a more accurate view of regional inequalities, taking into account each region's population size and socioeconomic characteristics. As noted, mortality rates are significantly higher in the North and Northeast regions compared to the Southeast, reflecting poorer socioeconomic conditions and greater vulnerability of the population in these areas. Conclusion: To analyze the number of deaths and the mortality rate from these causes, it is important to consider different regions and age groups in order to identify possible patterns and specific risk factors. When analyzing different age groups, it is important to consider that certain population groups may be more susceptible to these conditions due to underlying health conditions such as diabetes, immunosuppression, among others. Furthermore, socioeconomic factors and access to health services can influence mortality from these causes, as seen when analyzing the absolute number of deaths in the region without considering the size and population size. An analysis of population-adjusted mortality rates reveals a significant disparity between Brazilian regions, with higher infant mortality rates in the North and Northeast regions and higher mortality rates among the elderly in the Southeast. In summary, analyzing the number of deaths and mortality rates from septicemia and skin and subcutaneous tissue infections by region and age group is extremely important for identifying patterns and risk factors, as well as for guiding the development of effective prevention policies and strategies. Using data from DATASUS and the TABNET system provides a comprehensive and detailed overview of these issues, contributing to improving public health and protecting the population.