Burden of hydrocephalus disease in Colombia (2015-2024): An AVAD/DALYS analysis from official sources

Background: Hydrocephalus is characterized by excessive accumulation of cerebrospinal fluid in the subarachnoid space and cerebral ventricles, causing abnormal expansion and potentially leading to progressive brain damage. Mortality and morbidity indicators are used by the World Health Organization to measure the impact of a health problem on a given population. However, in Colombia, there is no accurate estimate of the disease burden attributable to hydrocephalus. Objective: To estimate the burden of disease due to hydrocephalus in Colombia during the period 2015-2024, disaggregated by department, sex, and age group, with the aim of generating relevant information for public health research, planning, and evaluation. Methodology: A descriptive, exploratory, retrospective ecological study was conducted. Data from official death records (vital statistics from DANE) and secondary sources such as SISPRO and RIPS were used. Population projections by age group were obtained from the 2005 and 2023 censuses. Statistical software was used for the demographic characterization of the population. The unit of measurement used was the Disability-Adjusted Life Years (DALY) indicator. DALYs were estimated by age group and for the annual total, considering both mortality and associated morbidity. Results: during the period analyzed, an estimated 184,753 DALYs were attributable to hydrocephalus, with males being the most affected (54%). The highest burdens were observed in children under 5 years of age (6.06 DALYs per-1,000 inhabitants) and in adults over 60 years of age (2013.01 DALYs per-1,000 inhabitants). The regions with the greatest impact were Antioquia, Bogotá, and Valle de Cauca. Conclusions: In Colombia, the burden of hydrocephalus is significant and varies considerably according to age and geographical area. These findings highlight the need to strengthen early diagnosis and differential care to improve public health outcomes .