Perfil epidemiológico das hospitalizações por urolitíase em Sergipe entre 2010 a 2024

Abstract

Urolithiasis is a common condition, especially among young adults, peaking in the third decade of life. Its incidence has risen in recent decades due to poor diet and sedentary lifestyle. In Brazil, it remains a leading cause of urological hospitalizations, with notable growth in Sergipe. Besides clinical impact, it imposes significant costs on patients and the public health system, underscoring the need to understand patient profiles to guide prevention. Objectives: To characterize the epidemiological profile of hospitalizations due to urolithiasis in Sergipe from 2010 to 2024. Methods: This was a descriptive ecological study utilizing secondary data from Hospital Admission Authorizations (AIH) from the SUS Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS). Descriptive measures were used to characterize the variables. Counts (hospitalizations and deaths) were analyzed using Poisson regression with a logarithmic offset. Continuous variables (average cost and length of stay) were evaluated using linear regression. Temporal trends were assessed using log-linear regression, estimating annual percentage change (APC) and average annual percentage change (AAPC) rates, with a segmented regression model to identify inflection points. Analyses were performed in R 4.3.2, with a significance level of 5%. Results: A total of 5,684 hospitalizations for urolithiasis were recorded (rate: 4.86/10,000 inhabitants), with significant regional variation (p < 0.001), highest in Aracaju (10.70) and lowest in Propriá (2.00). Hospitalizations increased from 2022 onwards. Elective admissions were more frequent (2.81 vs. 2.04; p < 0.001). The 50-59 age group had the highest incidence (10.16), followed by 40-49 years. No sex difference was found (p = 0.253), but race/color was associated (p < 0.001), with higher rates in Asians (9.09) and Pardos (5.11). The average cost was R$ 722.09, higher for elective cases. Length of stay averaged 2.5 days, longer in children (0-4 years) and elderly (≥80 years). Mortality was 0.36%, with regional variation (p < 0.001), highest in Lagarto (1.27%) and Aracaju (0.55%). Conclusion: Urolithiasis exhibits a high prevalence of hospitalizations, with significant variation across regions and age groups, being most frequent in adults between 40 and 59 years. The predominance of elective hospitalizations and stable average cost indicate control over hospital procedures. However, the differences in mortality rates between regions suggest potential inequalities in access to and quality of care, which warrant attention for improving health services.