as POORLY DEFINED NATURAL CAUSES OF DEATH BEFORE AND AFTER THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Iara Silveira da Silva; Edgar Merchan Hamann

doi:10.36489/saudecoletiva.2026v18i111p20722-20737

Authors

Iara Silveira da Silva Mestre em Saúde Coletiva - SARAH Network of Rehabilitation Hospitals; Universidade de Brasília. https://orcid.org/0009-0005-7574-2900
Edgar Hamann https://orcid.org/0009-0005-7574-2900 https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6775-9466

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.36489/saudecoletiva.2026v18i111p20722-20737

Keywords:

Mortality, Poorly defined causes, COVID-19, Death certification

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the occurrence and temporal trends of poorly defined natural causes of death before and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: Descriptive and analytical study based on secondary mortality data classified according to ICD-10/11. Sociodemographic variables and causal chains of death were examined. Results: An increase in poorly defined causes was observed during the pandemic period, followed by a reduction after 2021. Deaths were more frequent among males, middle-aged individuals, and socially vulnerable groups, with a high proportion of nonspecific immediate causes and absence of intermediate causes. Conclusion: Despite post-pandemic improvement, poorly defined causes persist, highlighting limitations in death certification.

Author Biography

Edgar Hamann, https://orcid.org/0009-0005-7574-2900

ND

References

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