Epidemiological profile of hospital admissions for conjunctivitis and other conjunctival disorders in Brazil from 2019 to 2014

Abstract

Conjunctivitis is an inflammation of the conjunctiva that represents one of the most prevalent ophthalmological conditions, affecting individuals of all ages. Its causes include infectious, allergic, and irritative agents, with viral, bacterial, and allergic forms being the most common. Due to its potential for dissemination and impact on patients' quality of life, the disease represents a significant public health problem. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile of hospitalizations for conjunctivitis and other conjunctival disorders in Brazil between 2019 and 2024, considering variables such as sex, age group, and geographic region. Methods: This is a retrospective and descriptive epidemiological study based on secondary data obtained from the SUS Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS), through DATASUS. Variables related to the number of hospitalizations and deaths, distributed by year, region, sex, and age group, were analyzed. Results: A higher number of hospitalizations were observed in females, with a greater concentration of cases in the Southeast Region and a lower occurrence in the North Region. The 50-59 age group presented the highest hospitalization rates, reflecting the vulnerability of the adult and elderly population. Between 2019 and 2020, there was a significant reduction in cases, possibly associated with isolation measures during the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a subsequent increase in 2024. Conclusion: Hospitalizations for conjunctivitis and other conjunctival disorders in Brazil reflect regional and demographic inequalities related to access to health services and socioeconomic conditions. This reinforces the need to strengthen epidemiological surveillance and expand preventive actions, including early diagnosis, health education, and access to ophthalmological care.