INTERNAÇÕES POR COMPLICAÇÕES DE OTITE MÉDIA NO BRASIL AUMENTARAM 47,8% APÓS 2019: ESTUDO EPIDEMIOLÓGICO NACIONAL, 2016-2026

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile of hospitalizations for complications of otitis media in Brazil between January 2016 and March 2026. Methods: Ecological, descriptive, retrospective study using secondary data from the Hospital Information System of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SIH/SUS), available through DATASUS. Hospitalizations related to "otitis media and other disorders of the middle ear and mastoid process" were analyzed from January 2016 to March 2026. Variables included number of hospitalizations, temporal and seasonal distribution, age group, sex, geographic distribution, hospital mortality, length of stay, and hospitalization costs. Results: A total of 160,485 hospitalizations were recorded, with 279 deaths and an overall mortality rate of 0.17%. A marked reduction in hospitalizations occurred during 2020-2021, followed by progressive post-pandemic growth, reaching 23,265 hospitalizations in 2025. Pediatric predominance was evident, especially among children aged 1-4 years (35,865 hospitalizations). The Southeast and Northeast regions concentrated most cases. A consistent seasonal pattern emerged, with peaks between July and November. Although children accounted for most hospitalizations, the highest absolute number of deaths occurred among individuals aged ≥80 years. Mean hospital stay was 3.4 days, and total costs exceeded R$ 93.6 million. Conclusions: Complications of otitis media remain associated with substantial hospital burden in Brazil, particularly among young children and older adults. Strong influence of respiratory seasonality and significant changes in epidemiological patterns following the COVID-19 pandemic were observed. These findings underscore the importance of early diagnosis, adequate management of respiratory infections, and strengthening preventive strategies.