Asthma mortality in Southern Brazil between 2013 and 2022

Aims: To analyze asthma mortality in Rio Grande do Sul from 2013 to 2022 and understand the variation in asthma mortality over the years, including during the COVID-19 pandemic period. Methods: This is a descriptive time-series study with an ecological approach that analyzed asthma mortality in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Mortality data were extracted from the Mortality Information System, and population data were obtained from the 2010 and 2022 censuses. Results: A total of 1,885 deaths were identified in Rio Grande do Sul between 2013 and 2022, with a predominance of women (69.39%), an average age of 68.27 years (SD = 20.03), 65.22% hospitalized, and an average income of R$ 1,044.73 (SD = 441.35). A significant increase in the number of deaths and the mortality rate was observed over the period, with an annual percentage variation of 5.69%. Conclusion: Asthma mortality in Brazil remains significant and is increasing. We emphasize the importance of improvements in diagnosis, treatment, and public health actions for prevention and control.