Preventable deaths by actions of the Public Health System in Brazilian population (2000–2013)

Abstract

Introduction The causes of preventable or reducible deaths are defined as those that can be totally or partially prevented by effective actions of the health services. Studies have indicated a significant reduction in deaths due to preventable causes in Brazil and have reinforced the importance of advancing in analyzes of the differentials of mortality rates due to preventable causes according to age groups, regions and municipalities. Objectives To analyze the mortality trend in the Brazilian population from 5 to 69 years, in Brazil and regions, using the “Brazilian List of Causes of Preventable Deaths”. Methods This is an ecological study of time series of the standardized mortality rate for preventable and non-preventable causes in the period between 2000 and 2013, with corrections for ill-defined causes and under-reporting of deaths. Results There was a decline in the mortality rate in the Brazilian population aged 5–69 due to preventable causes (1.6% per year) and non-preventable (1.4% per year). We also found a decrease in all groups of causes of preventable deaths in 2000–2013 period. The study draws attention to the increase in deaths from specific causes, such as pneumonia (1.9% per year) and transport accidents (0.6% per year), and to the stability in deaths due to aggressions and intentional self-harm. Deaths due to non-communicable diseases fell by 2.2% per year and was highest in the age group 60–69 in 2013. Conclusion Rates of preventable deaths are still high, especially for non-communicable diseases and external causes. These causes of death are sensitive to health promotion interventions and, therefore, this study reinforces the need to focus on these causes of illness and death and their risk factors.