ANALYSIS OF THE MAIN CAUSES OF DEATH IN THE NEONATAL PERIOD IN PIAUÍ, THE NORTHEAST REGION, AND BRAZIL: AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY

Abstract

ABSTRACT: The birth of a child is a highly anticipated moment for many parents, bringing forth emotions and feelings for the newborn. In some cases, the newborn suffers complications that can lead to death. This study aimed to analyze the main causes of neonatal death in the state of Piauí, in the Northeast region of Brazil, and in Brazil as a whole. It was a descriptive (quantitative) epidemiological study using the Department of Epidemiological Analysis and Surveillance of Non-Communicable Diseases (DAENT) as the data source, with data collected from 2020 to 2024. The study highlighted that the main causes of neonatal deaths in Brazil, the Northeast, and Piauí, in terms of total deaths, were perinatal conditions, congenital malformations, and some infectious and parasitic diseases. Preventable causes were those related to inadequate care during pregnancy, childbirth, and for the fetus and newborn. The research revealed the main causes of neonatal deaths in Brazil, the Northeast region, and Piauí state between 2020 and 2024. Therefore, it is suggested that further research be conducted to identify the most impactful causes among these, and to direct interventions and preventive actions towards addressing those causes of neonatal deaths.