Trends in Mortality from Neurological Disorders in Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil (2013–2023): Alzheimer’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and Parkinson’s Disease

Introduction:
Neurological disorders are an increasing public health concern worldwide, especially in aging societies. In Brazil, Rio Grande do Sul, with one of the country’s highest life expectancies, illustrates how demographic shifts intensify the burden of neurodegenerative diseases. This study analyzed mortality trends from Alzheimer’s disease (AD), multiple sclerosis (MS), and Parkinson’s disease (PD) in Brazil between 2013 and 2023.

Methods:
A retrospective, descriptive, population-based study was conducted using mortality records from the Brazilian Mortality Information System (DataSUS) for the period 2013–2023. Deaths attributed to AD, MS, and PD were identified. Absolute frequencies and proportional mortality rates were calculated, and temporal trends were examined to describe evolving patterns throughout the decade.

Results and Discussion:
Between 2013 and 2023, 45,665 deaths due to neurological disorders were reported. AD accounted for 22,671 deaths (49.7%), MS for 5,095 (11.2%), and PD for 4,754 (10.4%). Overall neurological mortality more than doubled, rising from 2,701 deaths in 2013 to 5,528 in 2023. AD consistently represented about half of all cases, reaching 52.8% in 2022, whereas MS and PD maintained stable proportions near 11–12%. These findings mirror the progressive aging of Brazil’s population, particularly in long-lived regions such as Rio Grande do Sul, where the demographic shift amplifies the burden of neurodegenerative diseases.

Conclusions:
Neurological mortality in Brazil has more than doubled in the last decade, with AD as the leading cause. These trends underscore the need for strengthened public health strategies, better access to care, and research focused on early detection and management in aging populations.