Analysis of Hospitalizations and Deaths due to Stroke in Different Regions of Brazil Before and During the COVID-19 Pandemic

Abstract

Considered the second leading cause of death worldwide, Stroke poses a significant public health issue, also responsible for a substantial disability burden, with COVID-19 potentially predisposing individuals to cerebrovascular complications. Objective: To analyze stroke admissions and deaths in different regions of Brazil, before and during the COVID-19 pandemic. Methodology: An observational ecological time series study utilizing secondary data from the Hospital Information Systems (SIH) of the Unified Health System's Informatics Department (DATASUS), covering 2008 to 2022. Criteria included ICD-10 Category: I64 as unspecified hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke, all Brazilian federal units, with data compiled for hospital morbidity (SIH/SUS), including admissions and deaths for both males and females. Results: Data analysis showed a significant increase in admission cases (R2= 0.9437, p=<0.0001) and deaths (R2=0.8894, p=<0.0001) from 2008 to 2022. Conclusion: The study highlights the continued rise in stroke admissions and deaths in Brazil, with a pause during the pandemic's peak period, followed by a return to growth. These findings serve as a warning for public health managers to reassess and adapt stroke prevention and care strategies in the post-pandemic context.