Spatial and temporal distribution of hospitalizations due to malnutrition in the state of Rio Grande Do Sul between 2015 and 2023

Malnutrition is defined as an imbalance in energy and nutrient intake and remains a major public health concern, particularly among children and older adults. This study aimed to analyze the spatial and temporal distribution of hospitalizations due to malnutrition in the municipalities of Rio Grande do Sul between 2015 and 2023. This cross-sectional research used data from the Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS) available on the DataSUS platform, totaling 20,799 hospitalizations. Descriptive statistics, Global and Local Moran’s I, and cartographic techniques were applied using R software, enhancing spatial comparability across municipalities by incorporating population-adjusted hospitalization rates. The results showed a progressive decline in hospitalizations over the study period; however, older adults remained the most affected group, particularly those admitted through urgent and emergency care services. Adjusted rates revealed marked regional disparities, with municipalities such as Lavras do Sul and Aceguá presenting the highest values. Despite the overall reduction in hospitalizations, persistence in specific areas reflects underlying socioeconomic inequalities. Spatial analysis indicated positive but weak spatial autocorrelation, with higher rates concentrated in the southwestern and western regions, where high–high and low–high clusters were identified. The findings underscore the need for strengthened and regionally tailored public policies to reduce malnutrition and address persistent structural vulnerabilities. Prioritizing municipalities with higher hospitalization rates and socioeconomic disadvantage is essential to mitigate disparities and improve nutritional health. By integrating spatial analysis with population-adjusted indicators, this study provides an evidence-based framework that can guide more effective and equitable public health planning in Rio Grande do Sul.