EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS OF TUBERCULOSIS MORTALITY IN RIO GRANDE DO NORTE FROM 2014 TO 2024

Abstract

Tuberculosis is an infectious disease caused by Mycobacterium tuberculosis that primarily affects the lungs, remaining a significant public health challenge both globally and in Brazil. Given this context, this study aimed to analyze the tuberculosis mortality profile in the state of Rio Grande do Norte from 2014 to 2024, considering sociodemographic characteristics, geographic distribution, temporal trends, and the location of deaths. This is a descriptive, quantitative, and  retrospective epidemiological study based on secondary data from the Mortality Information System. The results showed fluctuations in tuberculosis mortality over the analyzed period, with the disease remaining a significant public health issue in the state. A higher concentration of deaths was observed among males, adults and the elderly, individuals of mixed race (*pardos*), single people, and those with lower levels of education. A predominance of hospital-based deaths and a concentration of records in the state's main urban centers and health regions were also identified. It is concluded that strengthening epidemiological surveillance, early diagnosis, treatment adherence, and public policies targeting the most vulnerable populations is essential for reducing tuberculosis mortality in Rio Grande do Norte.