Tasa de mortalidad por Síndrome de Dependencia del Alcohol en Chile (2016-2023)

Abstract

Introduction: Alcohol dependence syndrome is a chronic and complex disorder that represents a serious public health issue. In Chile, the prevalence of risky alcohol consumption is high, particularly among men and young people. Treatment involves medical detoxification, pharmacological intervention, and psychotherapeutic support. Objective: To describe the mortality rate due to alcohol dependence syndrome in Chile between 2016 and 2023. Methodology: Observational, descriptive, and cross-sectional study. Data were obtained from the National Institute of Statistics and the Department of Statistics and Health Information, including the variables: sex, age group, region, and place of death. Results: A total of 1,493 deaths due to alcohol dependence syndrome were recorded, with a higher prevalence among men, reaching maximum rates of 3.08 per 100,000 inhabitants. In women, the highest rates reached 0.31 per 100,000 inhabitants. The 65–79 age group was the most susceptible. Discussion: The year with the highest mortality was 2021, which could be associated with social factors such as isolation and stress caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. Men showed higher mortality rates, possibly due to more problematic alcohol consumption. The 65–75 age group had the highest mortality rates, which may be related to changes in alcohol metabolism associated with aging. Conclusions: Men aged 65–75 represent the highest-risk group for mortality due to problematic alcohol consumption. We recommend conducting more detailed studies focused on sociocultural factors.