Regional differences in cardiovascular mortality transition in Brazil, 1980 to 2012]

Objective. To estimate the time trend of cardiovascular mortality from 1980 to 2012. Methods. We performed an ecological time series study of cardiovascular mortality in Brazil. Data regarding deaths were obtained from the Mortality Information System and divided into two groups: deaths from ischemic heart disease (IHD) and deaths from cerebrovascular disorders (CBVD). Results. A -34.73% variation in IHD standardized mortality rates was recorded for Brazil. Concerning specific regions, an increase was observed in the Northeast (117.98%%) and the Midwest (10.26%). IHD mortality rates fell in the Southeast (-53.08%), South (-44.56%) and North (-4.39%). For CBVD, the overall variation was -48.10%. Mortality rates were reduced in most regions: -61.99% in the Southeast, -55.49% in the South, -26.91% in the Midwest, and -20.78% in the North. Only the Northeast recorded an increase in CBVD mortality (13.77%). Conclusions. We observed an overall declining trend for IHD and CBVD mortality in Brazil from 1980 to 2012, with strong regional variation. Mortality rates were highest in the Southeast and South for both groups of disorders, and lowest in the North and Northeast. Surveillance efforts should take into account the regional differences in epidemiological profile.