Global report on the epidemiology and burden of sepsis: current evidence, identifying gaps and future directions
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World Health Organization
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55 p.
Sepsis is a preventable, life-threatening condition that represents a major global public health challenge because of its high incidence, mortality and long-term consequences. This WHO report reviews the current evidence on the epidemiology and burden of sepsis worldwide, with particular attention to maternal, neonatal, health care-associated and adult sepsis. Drawing on original WHO research, published literature and expert consultation, it examines available global estimates, describes the distribution of sepsis across populations and settings, and highlights disparities affecting low- and middle-income countries and vulnerable groups. The report also discusses the relationship between sepsis, quality of care, infection prevention and control, antimicrobial resistance and universal health coverage. The publication analyses methodological approaches used to estimate sepsis incidence and mortality, identifying important limitations related to inconsistent case definitions, insufficient population-based data, limited surveillance systems and variable data quality. It outlines priorities for strengthening sepsis epidemiology research through standardized definitions, improved study designs, enhanced surveillance and better integration of clinical, diagnostic and microbiological data. The report aims to support the generation of robust evidence to inform policy, improve prevention and clinical management, and strengthen monitoring of the global burden of sepsis.
Sepsis is a preventable, life-threatening condition that represents a major global public health challenge because of its high incidence, mortality and long-term consequences. This WHO report reviews the current evidence on the epidemiology and burden of sepsis worldwide, with particular attention to maternal, neonatal, health care-associated and adult sepsis. Drawing on original WHO research, published literature and expert consultation, it examines available global estimates, describes the distribution of sepsis across populations and settings, and highlights disparities affecting low- and middle-income countries and vulnerable groups. The report also discusses the relationship between sepsis, quality of care, infection prevention and control, antimicrobial resistance and universal health coverage. The publication analyses methodological approaches used to estimate sepsis incidence and mortality, identifying important limitations related to inconsistent case definitions, insufficient population-based data, limited surveillance systems and variable data quality. It outlines priorities for strengthening sepsis epidemiology research through standardized definitions, improved study designs, enhanced surveillance and better integration of clinical, diagnostic and microbiological data. The report aims to support the generation of robust evidence to inform policy, improve prevention and clinical management, and strengthen monitoring of the global burden of sepsis.