EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF HEART FAILURE HOSPITALIZATIONS IN THE PEDIATRIC POPULATION OF THE NORTHEAST REGION (2019-2023)

Abstract

This article aims to analyze the epidemiology of hospitalizations due to heart failure (HF) in children up to 14 years old in the Northeast region of Brazil between 2019 and 2023. Heart failure is a clinical syndrome characterized by the heart's inability to pump sufficient blood to meet the metabolic needs of tissues, with its early diagnosis in children being challenging due to its relative rarity. This retrospective and quantitative study utilized data from SIH/SUS, extracted from the DATASUS platform, to examine variables such as region, year, age group, sex, color/race, type of care, and expenses incurred. The analysis was conducted in Excel, with results presented in tables and graphs. During the analyzed period, 4,933 hospitalizations for HF in children were recorded, with 2019 being the most critical year in terms of hospitalizations and expenses. Bahia stood out with the majority of hospitalizations, while Sergipe had the lowest numbers. Children under one year of age were the most affected, particularly males and those self-declared as mixed race. Most hospitalizations occurred on an emergency basis, highlighting the need for early interventions and effective multidisciplinary follow-up to reduce the frequency of hospitalizations.