Trends of mortality from ill-defined causes in the Northeast region of Brazil, 1979–2009 *

SummaryObjectiveThis study aimed to analyze the trends of mortality from symptoms, signs and ill-defined causes (SSIDC) in the Northeast region of Brazil, during the period of 1979–2009.MethodsThe study used secondary data provided by the Mortality Information System SIM/Datasus/Ministry of Health.ResultsThere was a reduction in the proportion of this type of death (y = −1.3751x + 55.953 R2 = 0.9035), from 45.7% in 1979 to 8.1% in 2009, as well as according to sex: males (y = −1.3716x + 54.559 R2 = 0.9197) and females (y = −1.3828x + 57.932 R2 = 0.8771). The proportion of deaths due to ill-defined causes showed a decreasing tendency in all age groups. The highest reduction was observed in the upper and lower age ranges, < 1 and 1 to 4 year and elderly group, namely 60 years old and older. Capitals and countryside also showed a decreasing tendency in proportional mortality due to IDC, (y = −0.1118x + 9.4275 R2 = 0.3087) and (y = −1.7908x + 71.178 R2 = 0.9151) respectively, but with different temporal patterns. The capital cities had the lower rates since the beginning of the series regardless of the age groups, but the great reduction in rates was observed in the countryside, being 7.1 times higher among adults (20 to 59 years old).ConclusionDecreased trends were observed, but it is necessary to reinforce the actions to improve the capacity of health service assistance and coverage and data registration in order to maintain this trend.