Maternal mortality in Northeast Brazil 2009-2019: spatial distribution, trend and associated factors

To analyze the spatio-temporal pattern of maternal mortality and associated factors in Northeast Brazil, from 2009 to 2019.

This was an ecological study using the joinpoint method for temporal analysis and spatial autocorrelation and scan tests to identify clusters; regression models using the ordinary least squares and geographically weighted regression methods were used to identify factors associated with mortality, considering p-value < 0.05.

Maternal mortality decreased by 1.5% (95%CI; -2.5;-0.5) per year (p-value = 0.009); clusters, of deaths were found, mainly in Piauí and Maranhão, the variables associated with the maternal mortality ratio were Gini Index (β = 105.72; p-value < 0.001), municipal human development index (β = 190.91; p-value = 0.001), per capita income (β = -0.08; p-value = 0.001), Firjan Municipal Development Index-Health (β = -51.28; p-value < 0.001), life expectancy at birth (β = -3.50; p-value < 0.001).

There was a reduction in mortality in the period studied, with a concentration of deaths, primarily in Piauí and Maranhão; socioeconomic indicators were associated with higher mortality in the region.

There was a decrease in maternal mortality in Northeast Brazil, from 2009 to 2019. Deaths were mainly concentrated in the states of Piauí and Maranhão. Five socioeconomic indicators were associated with higher mortality in the region.

In order to maintain the trend of falling maternal mortality in Northeast Brazil, the need exists to reduce social inequalities and expand access to health services, especially within the scope of Primary Care.

Public policies are needed to expand health services in general as well as comprehensive women's health care in the Brazilian National Health System, especially for women living in contexts of greater social vulnerability.