EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF MORTALITY DUE TO TETANUS ACROSS DIFFERENT EDUCATIONAL LEVELS IN BRAZIL FROM 2011 TO 2021

Abstract

This article aimed to describe, through an epidemiological analysis, the mortality from accidental tetanus in Brazil between 2011 and 2021 and its impact related to educational inequality in disease outcomes. To achieve this, the TABNET system from Datasus was used, and in the “Epidemiological and Morbidity” section, the link “Diseases and Notifiable Conditions - 2007 onwards (SINAN)” was selected, addressing the topic of “accidental tetanus” with national coverage. A total of 1,280 cases of accidental tetanus were recorded in the country, of which 438 (34.38%) resulted in deaths directly associated with the reported condition. The highest fatality rate was observed among illiterate individuals, reaching 45.256%, whereas individuals with a complete high school education had the lowest fatality rate, corresponding to only 27.273%. This disparity reflects the role of education in access to information, adherence to treatment, and adoption of preventive measures. Additionally, the costs associated with the disease are high, covering diagnostics, treatments, transportation, and loss of productivity, significantly impacting public health. The study highlights the importance of public policies focused on education, vaccination, basic sanitation, and the inclusion of school health programs.