Mortality Due to Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome in Latin America

Abstract

Objectives: Mortality due to acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a major global health problem. Knowledge of epidemiological data on ARDS is crucial to design management, treatment strategies, and optimize resources. There is ample data regarding mortality of ARDS from high-income countries; in this review, we evaluated mortality due to ARDS in Latin America.

Data sources: We searched in PubMed, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Web of Science, and Latin American and Caribbean Health Science Literature databases from 1967 to March 2023.

Study selection: We searched prospective or retrospective observational studies and randomized controlled trials conducted in Latin American countries reporting ARDS mortality.

Data extraction: Three pairs of independent reviewers checked all studies for eligibility based on their titles and abstracts. We performed meta-analysis of proportions using a random-effects model. We performed sensitivity analyses including studies with low risk of bias and with diagnosis using the Berlin definition. Subgroup analysis comparing different study designs, time of publication (up to 2000 and from 2001 to present), and studies in which the diagnosis of ARDS was made using Pao2/Fio2 less than or equal to 200 and regional variations. Subsequently, we performed meta-regression analyses. Finally, we graded the certainty of the evidence (Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation).

Data synthesis: Of 3315 articles identified, 32 were included (3627 patients). Mortality was 52% in the pooled group (low certainty of evidence). In the sensitivity analysis (according to the Berlin definition), mortality was 46% (moderate certainty of evidence). In the subgroup analysis mortality was 53% (randomized controlled trials), 51% (observational studies), 66% (studies published up to 2000), 50% (studies after 2000), 44% (studies with Pao2/Fio2 ≤ 200), 56% (studies from Argentina/Brazil), and 40% (others countries). No variables were associated with mortality in the meta-regression.

Conclusions: ARDS mortality in Latin America remains high, as in other regions. These results should constitute the basis for action planning to improve the prognosis of patients with ARDS (PROSPERO [CRD42022354035]).