Integrative and complementary practices, hypertension and social indicators: an ecological study, Brazil, 2023

Abstract

Abstract Objective: To correlate use of integrative and complementary practices (ICP) and hypertension consultations, as well as their correlation with socioeconomic indicators in Brazil in 2023. Methods: This was an ecological study with data from the Primary Health Care Information System. ICP and hypertension care were analyzed, in addition to the following socioeconomic indicators: municipal human development index (MHDI) and gross domestic product per capita (GDP). ICP and hypertension rates were described, applying Pearson’s correlation coefficient to assess correlations between variables, in addition to analysis of variance and spatial analysis using global Moran’s I and local indicators of spatial association. Results: 78,496 ICP consultations were recorded, with the highest rate in Rio Grande do Sul state (271.75/100,000 inhabitants). Regarding hypertension consultations, Ceará state recorded the highest rate (64,409/100,000 inhabitants). Positive correlation was observed between ICP and hypertension (ρ=0.201; p-value 0.010), as well as with MHDI (ρ=0.426; p-value 0.026) and GDP per capita (ρ=0.443; p-value 0.020). Conclusion: There was positive correlation between use of PIC, hypertension consultations and socioeconomic indicators, highlighting regional inequalities in the provision of these practices in Brazil.