Epidemiological Analysis of Respiratory Diseases in Mexico From 2000 to 2020: Trends, Geographic Distribution, and Public Health Challenges

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: In Mexico, respiratory diseases such as tuberculosis (TB), acute respiratory infections (ARI), pertussis (Pt), and pneumonia-bronchopneumonia (Nemu) represent critical public health challenges that contribute to morbidity and mortality and are exacerbated by socioeconomic factors and the COVID-19 pandemic. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the trends, seasonal patterns, and geographic distribution of major respiratory diseases in Mexico between 2000 and 2020. METHODOLOGY: Data from the National Epidemiologic Surveillance System were analyzed using advanced statistical methods, including Kruskal-Wallis tests, Mann-Whitney analysis, and multivariate analysis, to identify temporal and regional variations. RESULTS: A 21-year analysis revealed significant (χ² = 63.57, p < 0.01) trends in the incidence of respiratory diseases in Mexico. Results showed an increase in TB and Pt cases in recent years and a decreasing trend in ARI and Nemu, with fluctuations influenced by socioeconomic factors and the pandemic. Seasonally, TB and Pt showed the highest incidence in spring and summer (27.4% and 32%, respectively), whereas ARI (29.7%) and Nemu (33%) peaked in winter. CONCLUSIONS: Prevention, early diagnosis and treatment of TB and Pt need to be strengthened, and surveillance of ARI and Nemu must be maintained. Public health policies, vaccination campaigns, and inter-institutional and community collaboration are essential to address these challenges.