INFANT MORTALITY IN CHILDREN UNDER FIVE YEARS OF AGE IN PARANÁ: AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF THE INFLUENCE OF HEALTH PROMOTION IN PRIMARY CARE

Abstract

Objectives: To epidemiologically analyze the influence of the reduction of health promotion actions in primary care influencing infant mortality in children under five years of age in the state of Paraná, during 2018-2022. Methods: This time-series study used secondary data from the Mortality Information System (SIM/DATASUS) of 2018 to 2022, focusing on children under five years of age who died due to preventable causes due to the reduction of actions related to health promotion linked to affirmative actions in the area of primary care in the state of Paraná. Results: In the period analyzed, Paraná was the southern state with the highest number of deaths in children under five years of age from preventable causes, due to the reduction of health promotion actions in primary care. This is the second most frequent cause of preventable death. The northwest macro-region has the highest infant mortality rate and the year with the highest rate was in 2022. The main factor was due to external causes, being more common due to inhalation of gastric contents. The most affected age group was between 1 and 4 years, and males were more prevalent. Conclusion: The variation in mortality rates underscores the importance of strategies adapted to local needs, including health promotion, immunization, and emergency care. Continuously monitoring trends and adjusting policies are key to improving child health outcomes, evidencing the positive influence of public policies aligned with the SUS.