EPIDEMIOLOGICAL PROFILE OF HOSPITALIZATIONS DUE TO AMEBIASIS IN BRAZIL FROM 2020 TO 2025

Abstract

Introduction: Amebiasis, caused by the protozoan Entamoeba histolytica, remains a relevant public health issue in Brazil, associated with poor basic sanitation conditions and historically consolidated regional inequalities. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile of hospitalizations due to amebiasis in Brazil between 2020 and 2025. Methods: This is an epidemiological, observational, descriptive, retrospective study with a quantitative approach, conducted using secondary data from the Brazilian Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS), obtained through TABNET/DATASUS, considering the variables year, region, sex, race/color, age group, and deaths. Results: A total of 4,023 hospitalizations and 79 deaths were recorded during the period, with a hospital mortality rate of 1.96%. The North region concentrated the highest number of hospitalizations (48.30%), while the Northeast presented the highest hospital mortality rate (4.64%). Distribution by sex was balanced, with higher mortality among women (2.14%). Children aged 1 to 4 years were the most hospitalized group, and elderly individuals aged 60 years or older presented the highest mortality rate (6.15%). The mixed-race (parda) population predominated among hospitalizations (65.50%). Conclusion: Significant regional and sociodemographic heterogeneity was observed, reinforcing the association between amebiasis and sanitary and social inequalities, especially in the North and Northeast regions. The findings highlight the need to strengthen epidemiological surveillance, timely diagnosis, and investment in basic sanitation as strategies to reduce morbidity and mortality from the disease in the country.