EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF CHRONIC OBSTRUCTIVE PULMONARY DISEASE (COPD) IN PARANÁ BETWEEN 2021 AND 2023

Abstract

COPD is a chronic respiratory condition that represents one of the main causes of hospital admissions, especially among the elderly. This study aims to analyze the epidemiology of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) in the state of Paraná, using secondary data obtained from the Hospital Information System of the Unified Health System (SIH/SUS), made available by DATASUS. Variables related to the number of hospitalizations, age groups, race/skin color, and hospital costs associated with COPD during the study period were analyzed. The results showed a total of 26.353 hospital admissions during the analyzed period, with a significant increase of 88.4% between 2021 and 2022. A predominance of hospitalizations was observed among elderly individuals, especially in the age groups between 60 and 79 years, in addition to a higher prevalence in the white population. A significant increase in hospital expenditures related to the disease was also identified, totaling R$ 34,786,300.13 during the analyzed period. The findings suggest the influence of factors such as population aging, post-pandemic impacts of COVID-19, and environmental factors on the increase in COPD-related hospitalizations. It is concluded that COPD continues to have an important impact on the public health system in Paraná, reinforcing the need to strengthen public policies focused on prevention, early diagnosis, and continuous follow-up of patients with chronic respiratory diseases.