Trends in hospitalizations for Appendicitis: a study of the last 5 years

Abstract

Cases of appendicitis represent a significant public health issue, being one of the leading causes of emergency surgical hospitalizations in Brazil. This study analyzed hospitalizations due to appendicitis in Brazil between 2020 and 2024, based on data from the Hospital Information System (SIH) of DATASUS. During the analyzed period, hospitalizations due to appendicitis totaled 455,260 cases, with a progressive increase in recent years. The year 2024 recorded the highest number of hospitalizations (20.27%), while 2022 had the lowest rate (19.50%). The Southeast region accounted for most cases (36.22%), with São Paulo leading hospitalizations, followed by Minas Gerais. The most affected age group was between 20 and 29 years old (30.38%), with a predominance of males (56.05%). Regarding race/ethnicity, the mixed-race population represented the highest percentage (45.87%), although a significant lack of information was observed (14.11%). The continuous growth of cases highlights the need for improved early diagnosis strategies, professional training, and optimization of clinical-surgical management, as well as strengthening access to healthcare services to reduce complications and hospital burden associated with the disease in Brazil.