Perfil epidemiológico da disfagia no Nordeste

• DOI: https://doi.org/10.22533/at.ed.3932528089

• Palavras-chave: Disfagia; Saúde pública; Epidemiologia; Fonoaudiologia.

• Keywords: Dysphagia; Public health; Epidemiology; Speech therapy. 

• Abstract: Introduction: Dysphagia, a swallowing disorder with a high prevalence in the elderly (30-40%), has serious consequences such as malnutrition, dehydration, and aspiration bronchopneumonia, representing a significant impact on public health. Understanding the epidemiological profile of this condition is essential to enable effective assessments and safe speech-language pathology interventions. Objective: To identify the epidemiological profile of dysphagia in the Northeast region. Methods: This is a descriptive, observational, cross-sectional study of both quantitative and qualitative types, using a convenience sample. Speech-language pathologists working with dysphagia in the Northeast region, invited via communication applications, completed an online form after consenting to participate, addressing characteristics of dysphagia, the population served, and the intervention. Results: The data reveal a predominantly elderly patient profile (61.3%), with treatment provided equally between the capital (61%) and the interior (39%). Clinically, neurogenic dysphagia predominated (67.7%), with mild-to-moderate severity in 29% of cases, according to the FOIS scale. A statistically significant association (p=0.029) between etiology and protocols was observed, with the PARD protocol being the most commonly used for neurogenic cases (63.3%). Thickeners (96.7%), oximeters (93.3%), and stethoscopes (90%) are widely used by professionals working mainly in hospitals (48.4%) and outpatient clinics (25.8%). Final considerations: The results reinforce the importance of early diagnosis and appropriate management to implement effective dysphagia assessment and intervention strategies in the region. Furthermore, there is a need for public policies that value continuing education and investment in resources to ensure safe, effective, and quality care.