Epidemiological Analysis of Respiratory Diseases in Mexico From 2000 to 2020: Trends, Geographic Distribution, and Public Health Challenges.

INTRODUCTION

In Mexico, respiratory diseases such as tuberculosis (TB), acute respiratory infections (ARI), pertussis (Pt), and pneumonia-bronchopneumonia (Nemu) represent critical public health challenges that contribute to morbidity and mortality and are exacerbated by socioeconomic factors and the COVID-19 pandemic.

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate the trends, seasonal patterns, and geographic distribution of major respiratory diseases in Mexico between 2000 and 2020.

METHODOLOGY

Data from the National Epidemiologic Surveillance System were analyzed using advanced statistical methods, including Kruskal-Wallis tests, Mann-Whitney analysis, and multivariate analysis, to identify temporal and regional variations.

RESULTS

A 21-year analysis revealed significant (χ² = 63.57, p < 0.01) trends in the incidence of respiratory diseases in Mexico. Results showed an increase in TB and Pt cases in recent years and a decreasing trend in ARI and Nemu, with fluctuations influenced by socioeconomic factors and the pandemic. Seasonally, TB and Pt showed the highest incidence in spring and summer (27.4% and 32%, respectively), whereas ARI (29.7%) and Nemu (33%) peaked in winter.

CONCLUSIONS

Prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of TB and Pt need to be strengthened, and surveillance of ARI and Nemu must be maintained. Public health policies, vaccination campaigns, and inter-institutional and community collaboration are essential to address these challenges.