Prematurity in Brazil (2003-2023): an ecological analysis of regional and sociodemographic inequalities.

Authors

  • Isabela Caixeta Rodrigues Soares IMEPAC https://orcid.org/0009-0003-3190-1266
  • Ana Clara Moreira Marques IMEPAC
  • Bruna Luiza Tavares Gomes IMEPAC
  • Camila Portilho Ferreira Cabral IMEPAC
  • Maria Clara Caetano de Deus IMEPAC
  • Lucivânia Marques Pacheco IMEPAC

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.47224/revistamaster.v11i21.715

Keywords:

prematuridade, prevalencia, gestação, socioeconomico

Abstract

Abstract
The present study analyzed the prevalence of prematurity and its associated factors in Brazil between 2003 and
2023, based on data from the Live Birth Information System (SINASC/DATASUS). Using an ecological study design
with a cross-sectional approach, the temporal evolution of preterm birth rates and their association with
sociodemographic variables—such as maternal age and education—was investigated. The research reveals an
increasing trend in preterm births across all Brazilian regions, with a notable rise between 2009 and 2012, possibly
influenced by improved data collection following changes in registration forms. Maternal age groups between 10–19
years and over 30 years showed a higher risk of prematurity. Regarding education, mothers with fewer years of
schooling had a greater likelihood of preterm delivery, although the strength of these associations was weak.
Statistical analyses indicated significance in several associations, but with small effect sizes. The study underscores the influence of social determinants of health, such as education and access to prenatal care, and suggests that
regional inequalities may impact the occurrence of preterm births. Despite the limitations of the ecological design,
the findings provide valuable insights for public policy development and generate hypotheses for future, more
in-depth analytical studies focused on improving maternal and child health.
Keywords: Prematurity, Prevalence, Pregnancy, Socioeconomic

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Published

2026-08-26

How to Cite

CAIXETA RODRIGUES SOARES, Isabela; MOREIRA MARQUES , Ana Clara; LUIZA TAVARES GOMES , Bruna; PORTILHO FERREIRA CABRAL , Camila; CAETANO DE DEUS , Maria Clara; MARQUES PACHECO , Lucivânia. Prematurity in Brazil (2003-2023): an ecological analysis of regional and sociodemographic inequalities. Revista Master - Ensino, Pesquisa e Extensão, [S. l.], v. 11, n. 21, 2026. DOI: 10.47224/revistamaster.v11i21.715. Disponível em: https://revistamaster.imepac.edu.br/RM/article/view/715. Acesso em: 27 aug. 2026.