Association between adolescent pregnancy and the Minas Gerais Social Responsibility Index in the State of Minas Gerais , Brazil

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To study the relationship between teenage pregnancy rates and the Minas Gerais Social Responsibility Index. METHODS: An ecological study was conducted based on records of live births of teenage mothers, obtained from the Live Birth Information System (SINASC). The Minas Gerais Social Responsibility Index (IMRS) and its dimensions were used as covariates. Statistical analysis was based on a Bayesian regression model with a spatial-temporal structure. RESULTS: A reduction in teenage pregnancy rates was observed over the years. For the entire period studied, there were profound differences between the North and South regions of the state. Both in the most developed regions of the state and in those marked by significant structural and socioeconomic deficiencies, there is an inverse relationship between social responsibility in public management, measured by the IMRS, and the reduction in teenage pregnancy rates. CONCLUSION: This finding shows that teenage pregnancy cannot be studied without considering the geographic and socioeconomic context in which these young women are inserted. Palabra Clave: Adolescent, teenage pregnancy, ecological studies, spatial distribution of the population.