EPIDEMIOLOGICAL STUDY OF HOSPITALIZATIONS BY EPILEPSY IN CHILDREN IN THE SOUTHEAST REGION OVER THE LAST FIVE YEARS

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder characterized by recurrent, unprovoked seizures resulting from abnormal electrical discharges in the brain. This condition affects all age groups, with an incidence in childhood that is more than double that observed in adulthood, and can lead to hospitalizations due to its potential impact and worsening. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study is to describe the epidemiology of hospitalizations by epilepsy in children in the Southeast region of Brazil from 2019 to 2023. METHODOLOGY: This is a descriptive, retrospective, and quantitative study that analyzes hospitalizations by epilepsy in children up to 14 years old in the Southeast region from January 2019 to December 2023. Data were obtained from the Hospital Information System of SUS (SIH/SUS) through the DATASUS platform, considering variables such as region/federative unit, year/month of processing, age group, sex, race/ethnicity, total cost, and nature of the care. The analysis was conducted using Microsoft Excel, and results were presented in tables and graphics in Microsoft Word. RESULTS: A total of 37,342 hospitalizations by epilepsy in children up to 14 years old were recorded in the Southeast region during the study period. The peak number of hospitalizations occurred in 2022, with 8,165 cases, while 2020 had the lowest record, with 6,638 cases. São Paulo had the highest number of hospitalizations (19,901), while Espírito Santo had the lowest (2,565). Prevalence was higher among male children (55.37%) and in the age group of 1 to 4 years (41.65%). The majority of cases were recorded among self-declared mixed-race individuals (43.83%). The total cost of hospitalizations was R$ 36,184,815.19, and 93.7% of the care was for urgent cases. CONCLUSION: Hospitalizations by epilepsy are more frequent among children aged 1 to 4 years, male, and mixed-race individuals residing in São Paulo. It is essential to ensure early medical access, promote awareness about epilepsy, and provide multidisciplinary support to reduce hospitalizations and improve the quality of life for affected children.