Analysis and evolution of mortality due to pressure ulcers in Spain between 1987-1999
Verdú J., Nolasco A., García C.

SUMMARY

Deaths due to pressure ulcers are being studied as a basic cause of death in Spain from 1987 to 1999 in people over 65. The data analysed are grouped together by Autonomous Communities, period and sex via mortality indicators: deaths, specific rates, adjusted rates using relative risk as a comparative indicator. Mortality maps are constructed by Autonomous Communities and time graphs. Among the most important finds it may be emphasised that the probability of a person dying as a result of a pressure ulcer increases with age and that this is a problem which predominantly affects women. We therefore find adjusted rates that range from 20 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants in males up to 31 deaths per 100,000 inhabitants in women according to Autonomous Community and period studied. The communities of Asturias, Valencian Community, Madrid and Navarra are notable for their high mortality rate over the period studied; the Basque Country is the only Autonomous Community which clearly reflects low mortality rates.

KEY WORDS

Mortality, pressure ulcers, epidemiology.

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Vol. 14 nº4-2003