Socioeconomic factors associated with hospital deaths due to COVID-19 in Brazil

Abstract

This paper aims to identify the socioeconomic, demographic, and clinical factors associated with COVID-19 deaths in Brazil using information from municipal and individual databases. The data was extracted from the IBGE, the Ministry of Tourism for municipalities, and the Ministry of Health for individuals, with a particular focus on the period from January 1, 2020, to May 31, 2022. Data analysis was performed based on the estimation of odds ratios through logistic regression. The results show that the probability of the death of individuals who were hospitalized by COVID-19 is greater for those living in cities with low GDP per capita, high illiteracy rates, and a high percentage of extreme poverty. In addition, individuals over 60 years old, males, racial minorities, and illiterates were more likely to die from COVID-19. This study provides evidence that the effects of COVID-19 can be alleviated by improving socioeconomic conditions.