UC scientist co-authors international study on mortality from lower respiratory tract infections over the past three decades
The study, published in The Lancet Infectious Diseases, also suggests ways to reduce the mortality burden of these diseases.
A researcher from the University of Coimbra (UC) participated in an international study published in the prestigious journal The Lancet Infectious Diseases. The study analyses mortality from lower respiratory infections (LRIs) over the last three decades and proposes ways to reduce the mortality burden of these diseases. LRIs encompass infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, or bronchiolitis.
The study Global, regional, and national incidence and mortality burden of non-COVID-19 lower respiratory infections and aetiologies, 1990–2021: a systematic analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021 had the participation of Mónica Rodrigues, a researcher at the Centre of Studies on Geography and Spatial Planning CEGOT) of the University of Coimbra (UC).
In this research work, the authors conclude that “although considerable progress has been made in reducing mortality from LRIs, these pathologies continue to have a major impact in low-income countries,” as explained by Mónica Rodrigues.
Mortality rates are highest in adults older than 70 years and in children younger than 5 years, and both incidence and mortality are generally higher in males
When discussing the age groups most affected by these infections, the researcher notes: “The study shows a significant decline in mortality among children under 5 years of age between 1990 and 2021, although no major decline was observed among adults aged 70 and over.” She adds, “This decline in child mortality is due, for example, to vaccination.”
Regarding the role of vaccines in reducing mortality, the research shows that "access to vaccines remains a major challenge in many countries," says Mónica Rodrigues. The study highlights the need to minimise exposure to risk factors such as smoking and air pollution to reduce the burden of LRIs. The research team also stresses the importance of rolling out new vaccines and therapies, investing in research, ensuring good stewardship of antibiotics, and investing in improved diagnostic technologies to improve the specificity and accuracy of therapies.
"Despite the declining incidence during the COVID-19 pandemic, LRIs remain a significant cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide.
The scientific paper is available here.