EPIDEMIOLOGICAL OVERVIEW OF PULMONARY THROMBOEMBOLISM IN BRAZIL BY SEX AND AGE GROUP

Abstract

Introduction: Pulmonary embolism is an important cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, particularly associated with population aging and multiple clinical risk factors. Methods: This retrospective and descriptive epidemiological study analyzed hospitalization and mortality data from the Brazilian Unified Health System Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS) from 2016 to 2025. Data were stratified by sex and age group. Results: A total of 109,021 hospitalizations and 18,940 deaths were recorded during the study period. Females accounted for most hospitalizations (61.03%) and deaths (58.90%). Hospitalizations were more frequent among individuals aged 60–69 years (19.33%), whereas mortality was highest among individuals aged 80 years or older (26.29%). The overall hospital lethality rate was 17.37%, with higher rates in males (18.32%) and progressive increase with aging, reaching 33.26% in individuals aged 80 years or older. Conclusion: Pulmonary embolism represents a significant public health burden in Brazil, particularly affecting elderly individuals and presenting higher lethality among males. Preventive strategies, early diagnosis, and appropriate management are essential to reduce mortality.