Evaluation of the Quality of information on fecundity derived from the sinasc in northeastern Brazil, 2000

Abstract

The main objective of this article is to evaluate whether the information provided from the System of Information on Live Births (SINASC) for the Northeastern Region of Brazil is useful in measuring fertility levels and patterns. The results indicate an underestimation of fertility levels derived from Sinasc, compatible with the idea of incomplete implementation of the system. There is evidence, on the other hand, that, for some areas, the fertility levels shown by Sinasc are similar to those calculated by means the census data. As for patterns of fertility, those obtained by Sinasc are similar to those derived from the Demographic Census. However, the fertility curves, plotted from Sinasc data, present slightly younger groups. The results also suggest that the omission of women with lower educational levels, together with the incomplete implementation of Sinasc data, especially for women from rural areas. This study shows Sinasc as an important and complex source of demographic information, despite the need to broaden its coverage in some states Northeastern Brazil.