MORTALITY FROM CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASES IN NORTHEASTERN BRAZIL BEFORE, DURING, AND AFTER THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are recognized as the leading cause of death in Brazil, and their mortality rates worsened during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in the Northeast region. This study, based on an integrative literature review, analyzed scientific publications from 2019 to 2024 as well as official data from DATASUS, IBGE, and the World Health Organization, aiming to examine the behavior of CVD mortality before, during, and after the pandemic, with special emphasis on the state of Piauí. The results indicate a significant increase in deaths from myocardial infarction and stroke between 2020 and 2021, associated with healthcare system overload, disruption of continuous care, and regional inequalities. In Piauí, the impact was more pronounced in areas outside the capital city. Even after the critical phase of the pandemic, mortality rates did not return to pre-pandemic levels. It is concluded that reducing cardiovascular mortality requires strengthening primary healthcare actions, continuous prevention strategies, and expanding access to health services.