revalence of Diabetes Mellitus Associated With Systemic Arterial Hypertension in Elderly Individuals in Primary Care in the Municipality of imperatriz, Maranhão

Objective: To determine the prevalence of diabetes mellitus associated with systemic arterial hypertension in older adults receiving primary care in the municipality of Imperatriz–MA, with the aim of characterizing the epidemiological profile of this population, identifying possible associated factors, and supporting the planning of health actions. Theoretical Framework: The study highlights theories on human aging, particularly the concepts of senescence and senility, which elucidate the physiological changes and pathologies inherent to aging. It also includes references related to geriatric syndromes, such as frailty and sarcopenia, which are essential to understanding the functional decline in older adults. In the sphere of chronic diseases, the physiopathology linking Diabetes Mellitus and Systemic Arterial Hypertension is emphasized, focusing on the role of the renin–angiotensin–aldosterone system (RAAS) as a link between insulin resistance and vascular dysfunction. Additionally, the regulatory frameworks of Primary Health Care, such as the National Health Policy for Older People and home care programs, support the understanding of the comprehensive, longitudinal, and preventive care delivered to the elderly population. Method: This research employed a descriptive, quantitative documental study to address the proposed objectives. The study was conducted in the municipality of Imperatriz–MA, located in northeastern Brazil. The research evaluated, through reports, the elderly population of the municipality aged 60 years and older who were assisted at Primary Health Units (UBS). This evaluation was conducted through the analysis of data obtained from unit reports. As a documental study, the reports analyzed met predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, covering the years 2019 to 2024, including older adults aged 60 years or above and information relevant to the research topic presented in the official reports provided by the municipal health department. Data collection was carried out in October and November 2025 using annual care reports from primary care (e-SUS). After accessing the reports, the researchers performed data tabulation and created a structured spreadsheet based on the study variables. Results and Discussion: Data analysis reveals a complex scenario of Non-Communicable Chronic Diseases (NCDs) among older adults assisted by PHC in Imperatriz–MA, characterized by a predominance of women—reflecting the feminization of aging and higher adherence of women to health care activities (Minayo, 2012; Silva et al., 2022)—and by high prevalence rates of Systemic Arterial Hypertension (SAH) and Diabetes Mellitus (DM). These rates peaked in 2023 after a decline related to the pandemic in 2020, followed by stabilization in 2024. The highest concentration of cases occurred in peripheral neighborhoods, highlighting the influence of social and structural determinants such as Family Health Strategy (FHS) coverage, urbanization, and socioeconomic vulnerability. The association between DM and SAH reached 23.4% in 2023, reflecting the cumulative impact of aging, physical inactivity, inadequate diet, and territorial inequalities, shaping a profile of cardiovascular multimorbidity that demands integrated care and continuous surveillance (Ribeiro et al., 2020; Vieira et al., 2021). These findings confirm PHC as the key setting for prevention, early detection, and control of NCDs, requiring territory-based strategies, health education, multidisciplinary follow-up, and public policies that consider local social determinants to ensure equity and promote healthy aging. Research Implications: The practical and theoretical implications of this research are discussed, providing insights into how its results can be applied or influence practices in primary health care and public health for the elderly. These implications include the planning and enhancement of NCD care strategies, strengthening epidemiological surveillance actions, improving work processes of Family Health Strategy teams, designing public policies targeted at older adults, implementing educational and preventive interventions based on territorial needs, and developing new research lines on multimorbidity, social determinants of health, and care management in aging populations. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature by exploring, in an integrated manner, the prevalence and distribution of systemic arterial hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and their association in older adults within the context of Primary Health Care, using real epidemiological data and territorial analysis of Basic Health Units. Its originality lies in the approach that links social determinants, service organization, and multimorbidity patterns, providing evidence directly applicable to local management and planning. The relevance and value of this study stem from its potential to support strategic decision-making in PHC, guide more equitable public policies, strengthen health surveillance actions, and improve prevention and control interventions for NCDs in elderly populations, contributing both to professional practice and to scientific knowledge on aging and longitudinal care.