Pulmonary Embolism: epidemiological distribution of morbidity in the state of Minas Gerais between 2016 and 2025 and the importance of respiratory physiotherapy

Abstract

Introduction: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is an acute clinical condition characterized by partial or total obstruction of the pulmonary arterial circulation, usually resulting from the migration of thrombi originating in the deep venous system of the lower limbs. Objective: The epidemiological distribution of morbidity due to pulmonary embolism in the state of Minas Gerais was analyzed for the period from 2016 to 2025, correlating the findings with the importance of respiratory physiotherapy as a complementary strategy for functional recovery and the reduction of complications associated with the disease. Methods: This is a retrospective, quantitative study based on the analysis of secondary data from the Unified Health System's Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS) regarding hospitalizations for pulmonary embolism in Minas Gerais between 2016 and 2025. The variables analyzed were: processing year, region of residence, age group, race/color, and sex. Data were organized into absolute and relative frequencies, allowing for the characterization of the epidemiological profile of hospital morbidity. Results: A total of 20,212 hospitalizations for pulmonary embolism were recorded in Minas Gerais between 2016 and 2025, showing an upward trend throughout the historical series, rising from 1,587 (7.85%) in 2016 to 2,636 (13.04%) in 2025. Hospitalizations were most frequent in the 60–69 age group (18.59%), followed by individuals aged 70–79 (17.00%) and 40–49 (15.18%). Higher frequencies were observed among individuals self-identified as mixed-race/brown (*pardos*) (47.69%), females (63.1%), and cases involving emergency care (99.3%). The findings corroborate the literature by highlighting a higher incidence of the disease among older adults, reflecting the influence of population aging, the higher prevalence of thromboembolic risk factors, and the clinical severity of pulmonary embolism, which requires emergency care. In this context, the importance of respiratory physiotherapy as a complementary patient care strategy stands out, contributing to improved lung function, recovery of functional capacity, prevention of complications resulting from immobilization, and reduction of dyspnea. Conclusion: It is concluded that pulmonary embolism represents a significant public health issue in Minas Gerais, making it essential to strengthen actions aimed at prevention, early diagnosis, timely treatment, and expanded access to cardiorespiratory rehabilitation, thereby fostering better clinical and functional outcomes.