Investigating Causes of Death in Brazil Using Verbal Autopsy
Author Information
Author(s): Elisabeth França, Deise Campos, Mark DC Guimarães, Maria de Fátima M Souza
Primary Institution: Federal University of Minas Gerais
Hypothesis
Can verbal autopsy improve the accuracy of cause of death data in small municipalities in Brazil?
Conclusion
The study shows that using verbal autopsy can significantly increase the identification of injury-related deaths among those initially recorded as ill-defined causes.
Supporting Evidence
- 12.6% of investigated ill-defined deaths were due to injuries.
- The proportional mortality fraction from injury increased from 4.4% to 8.2% after investigation.
- Drowning was identified as the leading cause of injury deaths after investigation.
Takeaway
This study found that many deaths that were not clearly defined were actually due to injuries, and asking families about the deceased can help find out what really happened.
Methodology
The study used a cross-sectional design, collecting data from death certificates and conducting verbal autopsy interviews with family members.
Potential Biases
Potential bias from family members' recall and the absence of health workers during interviews to avoid influencing responses.
Limitations
The study may not be generalizable to all regions due to its focus on small municipalities in northeastern Minas Gerais.
Participant Demographics
The majority of deceased were over 60 years old, with a similar sex distribution and 81% living in urban areas.
Statistical Information
P-Value
0.00
Statistical Significance
p<0.05
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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