Deaths from alcoholic liver cirrhosis in Chile (1997-2022): trends and territorial inequalities

Abstract

Introduction: Alcoholic liver cirrhosis (ALC) is one of the leading causes of liver disease–related mortality in Chile. Despite preventive initiatives, evidence on its temporal evolution and territorial disparities in mortality remains limited. This lack of information represents a critical gap for designing more targeted prevention and management strategies. Objective: To describe the evolution of mortality from alcoholic liver cirrhosis in Chile between 1997 and 2022, analyzing its distribution by sex, age, and region. Methodology: Ecological, descriptive, and cross-sectional study. Data from the Department of Statistics and Health Information (DEIS) were used, including all deaths from ALC. Age, sex, and region-specific mortality rates were calculated. Results: A total of 20,918 ALC deaths were recorded. Mortality decreased by 53.67% from 1997 (n=1,336) to 2022 (n=793). Men accounted for 85% of deaths. The most affected age groups were 40–59 and 60–79 years. Ñuble, Biobío, and Aysén had the highest population-adjusted mortality rates. Conclusion: Despite the reduction in alcoholic liver cirrhosis mortality, significant territorial and demographic disparities remain. Men account for 85% of deaths (a male-to-female ratio of 6:1), while the 40–59 age group is the most vulnerable. These inequities highlight the urgency of developing specific interventions at the primary care level and strengthening preventive strategies aimed at high-risk groups.