[Spatial distribution of tuberculosis mortality in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil]

An ecological study was conducted to describe the urban spatial distribution of mortality attributable to tuberculosis in Salvador, Bahia, Brazil in 1991, 1994, and 1997. The unit of analysis was the Health District (HD). The HD with the highest standardized rates was Sub rbio Ferrovi rio in 1991, 1994, and 1997, with 15.7, 10.6, and 10.6/100.000 inhabitants, respectively. Inequalities in mortality between HDs were high. The year 1997 showed the lowest standardized rates. The proportional mortality ratios for tuberculosis when compared with total deaths from infectious diseases were 20.7%, 18.2%, and 16.9% for 1991, 1994, and 1997 respectively. The highest rates were observed in the age group over 65 years. The authors argue the possibilities of using the results for the implementation of equitable local health policies and health surveillance measures, since the methodology identified both the HD with the highest risk and the most heavily affected age groups.