Estudo epidemiológico sobre locais de morte dos doentes não oncológicos portugueses

Abstract

Introduction: In recent years, the advances in medicine as well as the aging of thepopulation, have made death over-medicalized and not part of the natural process oflife. In this context, Palliative Care has been a force of change by raising awareness aboutthe meaning of death and its relevance for the patient and their families. Thisdissertation presents the evolution of the places of death of non-cancer patients as wellas other indicators and the population's preference.Material and Methods: A retrospective and descriptive study based on the deaths ofthe Portuguese population over 16 years, ranging from 2012 to 2018, by disease (ICD10, non-cancer patient - Lancet Commission Criteria), region of residence and place ofdeath (hospital, home and other). The distribution of deaths by place of death iscompared with Portuguese preferences (PRISMA) and by demographic, social andhealth care accessibility indicators, such as Palliative Care accessibility.Results: Most non-cancer patients die in hospitals, totaling 59.3%. The remaining 28.1%die at home and 12.5% elsewhere. The most common disease to die from at home is Alzheimer Disease (42%). The non-cancer patient dies more at home and less at thehospital when compared to the cancer patient. Conclusion: In Portugal, even with the increase in Health Care accessibility, whether Primary or Palliative Care, there is still a divergence between the place of death preference and the effective place of death. In the future, it will be essential to reviewand adjust health policies to the needs of the population, ensuring better care for the patient, family members and caregivers.

Date of Award	2 Aug 2021
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Manuel Luís Capelas (Supervisor)