EVOLUTION OF DEATHS BY GROUPS OF CAUSES IN CHILDREN UNDER 1 YEAR IN MACEIÓ / ALAGOAS, 1997- 2007

Abstract

Objective: To identify the main causes of death among children under one year in the city of Maceio, and compared with the Northeast and Brazil. Material and Methods: A descriptive study using secondary data to construct indicators of proportional mortality by causes of death in children under 1 year according to the ICD-10 chapters in the city of Maceió, in the Northeast and in Brazil in 1997 and 2007. Results: 391 deaths in 1997 were in Maceió and perinatal conditions (AP) were the leading causes of death followed by infectious and parasitic diseases. In 2007 there were 300 deaths registered with the AP as the main cause followed by birth defects. The Northeast and Brazil maintained the AP as the major causes of deaths in both periods. AP is the largest cause of deaths in the three contexts in the period studied, indicating the neonatal component as the major contributor to infant mortality. These deaths result from a combination of biological, social, cultural and health system failures. Conclusion: The study show the need for intersectoral policies that improve the living conditions of families and access to health services, in addition to offering quality services for the mother and newborn. DESCRIPTORS: Infant Mortality, Epidemiologic Studies, Maternal-Child Health Services