C62-33 Heterogeneity in Pediatric Interstitial Lung Diseases: Age-Specific and Diagnosis-Specific Prevalence Patterns in Colombia, 2015-2024

Background

Pediatric interstitial lung diseases (ILDs) comprise a heterogeneous group of rare disorders associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. Population-based epidemiological data remain scarce in low- and middle-income countries, limiting health system planning and policy development. We aimed to estimate the prevalence and temporal trends of pediatric ILDs in Colombia using nationwide administrative healthcare data.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, population-based study using Colombia’s Registro Individual de Prestación de Servicios de Salud (RIPS) from 2016 to 2024. Pediatric ILD cases were identified using ICD-10 codes for interstitial lung diseases in individuals aged 0-18 years. Prevalence was estimated overall, by year, sex, age group, and diagnosis. Crude and WHO age-standardized prevalence rates were calculated per 100,000 population. Temporal trends were assessed using Poisson regression and LOESS smoothing.

Results

A total of 4,947 pediatric ILD-related healthcare encounters were identified. The global crude prevalence was 32.1 per 100,000 children, with similar age-standardized estimates. Prevalence was highest in infants younger than one year and showed a secondary increase during adolescence. No relevant sex differences were observed. A significant annual increase in reported cases was detected (IRR 1.022; 95% CI 1.011-1.034), with a marked decline during the COVID-19 pandemic. Alveolar and fibrotic interstitial lung disease categories accounted for most cases.

Conclusions

This first nationwide study provides robust real-world evidence on the epidemiology of pediatric ILDs in Colombia, revealing substantial healthcare utilization and distinct age-related patterns. Administrative data represents a valuable complementary tool for surveillance of rare pediatric lung diseases.

This abstract is funded by: Own fundings