Pneumonia: Epidemiological profile of morbidity in Brazil (2016–2025) and its relationship with physiotherapy pulmonar

Abstract

Introduction: Pneumonia is an acute infection of the lung parenchyma characterized by an inflammatory process affecting the alveoli and terminal bronchioles, leading to the accumulation of secretions and impaired gas exchange. Objective: To describe the profile of individuals hospitalized for pneumonia in Brazil between 2016 and 2025, in the context of the importance of pulmonary physiotherapy for this diagnosis. Methods: A cross-sectional epidemiological study was conducted using the Hospital Information System; data collection took place in July 2026, covering the period from 2016 to 2025. The variables analyzed included the year of processing, region, age group, race/color, and sex. Results: A total of 5,963,622 hospital admissions for pneumonia were recorded in Brazil between 2016 and 2025. A reduction in hospitalizations was observed in 2020 and 2021, followed by a progressive increase through 2025. The Southeast Region accounted for the highest number of admissions (37.89%), followed by the Northeast (25.40%). Admissions were predominantly among individuals of mixed race/ethnicity (*pardos*) (43.31%) and males (51.9%), and were concentrated at the extremes of the age spectrum, with the highest frequencies observed in the elderly aged 80 years or older (18.99%) and children aged 1 to 4 years (17.14%). These findings align with existing literature, demonstrating that young children and the elderly are the groups most vulnerable to pneumonia due to an immature or declining immune response and a higher prevalence of comorbidities. The reduction in hospitalizations during the COVID-19 pandemic is linked to social distancing measures, mask-wearing, and improved hand hygiene, whereas the increase observed after 2022 reflects the resurgence of respiratory pathogen circulation. The concentration of admissions in the Southeast Region mirrors Brazil's population distribution and the greater availability of hospital services. In this context, physiotherapy plays a crucial role in hospital care and rehabilitation, fostering improved respiratory function, preventing complications, and facilitating early mobilization and functional recovery. Conclusion: Pneumonia remains a significant cause of morbidity and hospitalization in Brazil, particularly among children and the elderly. These results underscore the need to strengthen prevention efforts, expand vaccination coverage, enhance Primary Health Care, and ensure multidisciplinary care—with a particular emphasis on physiotherapy—to reduce complications, length of stay, and readmission rates, thereby promoting better clinical outcomes and quality of life.