Pulmonary embolism: epidemiological profile of hospital morbidity in Minas Gerais (2021–2025)

Abstract

Introduction: Pulmonary embolism (PE) is an acute and potentially life-threatening cardiovascular condition resulting from the obstruction of pulmonary arterial circulation, usually associated with venous thromboembolism. Its occurrence can lead to significant cardiorespiratory and functional consequences, making it important to characterize its epidemiological profile and discuss care and rehabilitation strategies. Objective: To analyze the epidemiological distribution of hospital morbidity due to pulmonary embolism in Minas Gerais between 2021 and 2025, presenting the potential implications for respiratory physiotherapy—supported by scientific evidence—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 hospital admissions for pulmonary embolism in Minas Gerais between 2021 and 2025. The variables analyzed were: year of processing, age group, race/color, and sex. Data were organized using absolute and relative frequencies to characterize the epidemiological profile of hospital morbidity. Results: A total of 11,730 hospital admissions for pulmonary embolism were recorded during the analyzed period, showing a continuous increase from 2,094 (17.85%) in 2021 to 2,636 (22.47%) in 2025, representing a rise of approximately 25.9%. Hospitalizations were most concentrated among individuals aged 60 to 69 years (2,252 cases; 19.20%), with people aged 60 or older accounting for 51.22% of all admissions. Regarding race/color, the *pardo* (mixed-race) population predominated, with 6,110 records (52.09%), followed by the white population, with 3,647 (31.09%). A predominance of females was observed, with 7,240 hospitalizations (61.7%), alongside a significant number of emergency care admissions, accounting for 11,644 cases (99.3%). The findings highlight a substantial demand for hospital care, particularly among older individuals—a group potentially more susceptible to deconditioning and functional limitations. In this context, following clinical stabilization, respiratory and cardiorespiratory physical therapy can be integrated into multidisciplinary care through functional assessment, monitoring of responses to exertion, progressive mobilization, and strategies aimed at restoring functional capacity. Conclusion: An increase in the absolute number of hospitalizations for pulmonary embolism in Minas Gerais was observed between 2021 and 2025, with a predominance among individuals aged 60 to 69, mixed-race individuals, women, and emergency admissions. The results underscore the importance of organizing care for acute cases and ensuring continuity of care after clinical stabilization. Respiratory and cardiorespiratory physical therapy offers a potential contribution to functional recovery and the mitigation of the effects of immobility, and should be integrated into multidisciplinary care on an individualized basis. However, as the study relied on secondary data, it was not possible to directly evaluate the utilization or effectiveness of physical therapy interventions.