REAL-WORLD EVIDENCE OF THE USE OF IMMUNOBIOLOGICS IN CROHN'S DISEASE IN THE STATE OF GOIÁS FROM 2018 TO 2023: AN OPEN RETROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY

Introduction The use of immunobiologicals in the treatment of Crohn's Disease has shown significant impact in reducing complications, hospitalizations, and surgical interventions. Therefore, understanding the implementation of this treatment is essential to guide health planning actions.

Objective To analyze real-world data on the use and implementation of immunobiologicals for the treatment of Crohn's Disease in Goiás, from 2018 to 2023.

Methods An open retrospective cohort study was conducted using data from DATASUS databases. Extraction, Transformation, and Load (ETL) algorithms were applied to two databases from the Brazilian Unified Health System's Outpatient Information System (SIA/SUS)—Ambulatory Procedures and Medication Authorizations. Data from January 2018 to December 2023 in Goiás were analyzed, based on records of health resource utilization by individual patients with Crohn's Disease. This approach allowed for a description and analysis of outpatient treatment regimens with immunobiologics in Goiás.

Results A total of 625 patients were included in the cohort during the study period. The majority of patients were male (63.7%). The average age of patients was 35.3 years (Standard Deviation ± 14.9), with the predominant age group being 20–39 years, comprising 347 (50%) patients. Infliximab was observed as the primary immunobiologic used, with its usage increasing from 92.9% to 95.3% of patients. A total of 441,687 units of infliximab were dispensed during the study period, while 1,232,551 units were approved, averaging 205,426 units annually. The mean annual cost was R$ 3,343,455.41, with a total expenditure of R$ 20,060,732.50.

Conclusion The data highlights the predominant use of infliximab for treatment and the prevalence of young male patients, underscoring the need for specific interventions for this group. Furthermore, the considerable financial investment involved emphasizes the importance of targeted health planning aimed at optimizing resources and achieving better clinical outcomes for patients with Crohn's Disease.

No conflict of interest has been declared by the author(s).

Publication History

Article published online:
25 April 2025