Óbitos de idosos por COVID-19: Uberlândia 2020-2022

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the sociodemographic profile of deaths of elderly individuals due to Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS) caused by Covid-19 in Uberlândia, from 2020 to 2022; to evaluate the age and gender distribution, and the correlation with comorbidities and fatality rate; to identify the geographic distribution of deaths using the Kernel cartogram. As a methodology, it is a documentary, quantitative, descriptive and retrospective study, using data from the Influenza Epidemiological Surveillance Information System (SIVEP-Gripe), to analyze 6,001 cases of elderly individuals reported with SARS (Covid-19), of which 2,382 resulted in death. As a result of articles 1, a higher risk of death was observed in elderly males with comorbidities, especially in the age group of 80 years or older. The most prevalent comorbidities associated with deaths were chronic kidney, neurological, liver, immunosuppression, hematological, respiratory diseases, and obesity. As for Article 2, using the Kernel Density Cartogram, it was possible to distribute deaths, identifying concentrations in the central region of Uberlândia. It was evident that the tool is effective in visualizing spatial patterns of mortality. As a general conclusion of the study, it was clear that the elderly are a significant risk group for Covid-19, with a higher fatality rate associated with comorbidities and advancing age. Spatial analysis with Kernel cartograms proved useful for understanding and planning public health responses, but there is a need for more targeted policies to protect the elderly, with a focus on prevention, vaccination, and health education. The research highlights the vulnerability of the elderly during the pandemic and the importance of specific strategies for this group. Further studies are recommended to improve the understanding of risk factors and the implementation of effective public policies.