Analysis of homicide mortality in Brazil

This paper analyzed homicide mortality in Brazil in 2003 and its trend from 1980 to 2003. Data from the National Mortality Information System (SIM) were used. Standardized mortality rates were utilized for the mortality trend analysis, based on the 2000 population in Brazil. There were 49,808 deaths in 2003 - 28 deaths per 100 thousand inhabitants. There was a differential mortality according to race/color and social condition - educational level. Black victims were more likely to present lower social condition and higher homicide rates, compared to whites. Standardized firearm homicide rates increased between 1980 and 2003 with almost five fold higher rates in the age group of 15 to 29 years. These results show the importance of information systems to help produce evidence based strategies and public policies aimed to curb these events.