Análise e distribuição espacial da mortalidade infantil e sua relação com a mortalidade materna no estado do Rio Grande do Norte: um estudo ecológico

Abstract

Introduction: Infant mortality is a key public health indicator, reflecting socioeconomic conditions and the quality of maternal and child health services. In Brazil, there has been a significant reduction in infant mortality rates due to health policies such as PRMI and PNAISC. However, regional disparities persist, with the Northeast region showing higher rates. In Rio Grande do Norte, infant mortality has remained stable since 2009, highlighting the vulnerability of racialized groups and the need for targeted interventions. Objectives: To analyze infant mortality rates in Rio Grande do Norte in 2022, their spatial distribution, and their correlation with other variables such as maternal mortality, infant mortality components, and birth rate. Research Methods: This is an ecological epidemiological study using secondary data from Datasus, extracted from SIM and Sinasc, and organized in Excel. The data were analyzed through spatial distribution using thematic maps and correlation analysis in the R statistical software. Statistical analysis included frequency description and Pearson correlation between maternal mortality, infant mortality, and birth rate, with a 95% confidence interval (CI) and p<0.05. The results were presented graphically through tables, correlograms, and thematic maps. Results: The infant mortality rate (IMR) in Rio Grande do Norte in 2022 was 11.06/1000 live births (LB), with 443 recorded deaths. Early neonatal mortality had the highest rate among infant mortality components (6.17/1000 LB). Spatial mapping revealed a heterogeneous distribution, with high IMR in the western part of the state, particularly in Health Region VI (Pau dos Ferros), with elevated values in municipalities such as Coronel João Pessoa and Francisco Dantas. Correlation analysis showed a moderate and significant negative relationship between maternal and early neonatal mortality (r=-0.57; p=0.006), but no significant association with other components. Infant mortality had a moderate positive correlation with late neonatal mortality (r=0.68; p=0.00), while the birth rate showed no statistically significant relationship with infant deaths. Final Considerations: Infant mortality showed a decreasing trend in 2022 compared to previous years. Spatial distribution highlighted high IMR in municipalities far from urban centers and with lower populations. There was no positive correlation between maternal and infant mortality, but a moderate correlation was found between infant mortality and its components. The study's findings may contribute to improving public policy development, focusing on effective strategies for rural municipalities in the state.