International Journal of Cardiovascular Sciences. 11/jun/2025;38:e20240200.

Epidemiological Analysis of Emergency Hospitalizations in Brazil Due to Cardiovascular Diseases From 2013 to 2023

Yago Souza Luiz , Vitor Moreira Alvarenga , Mikaela de Miranda Lopes , Lara Gomes Silva

DOI: 10.36660/ijcs.20240200

Abstract

Introduction:

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, posing a significant public health challenge. Thus, analyzing their prevalence over time is crucial.

Objective:

To perform an epidemiological analysis of emergency hospital admissions due to CVD in Brazil between 2013 and 2023.

Methods:

This is an ecological, descriptive study based on data from the DATASUS database. Cardiovascular morbidities classified by ICD-10, along with variables such as sex and age group, were selected for analysis. Data was collected in October 2024 and organized into graphs and tables.

Results:

From January 2013 to December 2023, 8,208,282 patients were admitted for emergency cardiovascular conditions, 53.7% of whom were male, with 26% aged between 60 and 69 years. A significant reduction in hospital admissions was observed in 2020 and 2021. Ischemic heart diseases were the most frequent cause of hospitalization, accounting for 29.72% of cases. A notable increase in mortality was recorded in 2021 and 2022, with higher mortality rates among male patients and those admitted for cerebrovascular diseases.

Conclusion:

The observed increase in hospitalizations is attributed to the demographic transition occurring in the country, while the sharp decline in 2020 and 2021 appears to be a consequence of COVID-19-related measures, which is a trend also observed in other countries. These findings underscore the importance of studying the epidemiology of CVD in Brazil and reinforce the need for public investment aimed at reducing their prevalence.