DISPARITIES IN CERVICAL CANCER MORTALITY: A DECADE-LONG ANALYSIS ACROSS BRAZILIAN REGIONS

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Cervical cancer (CC), primarily caused by persistent infection with oncogenic HPV types, is characterized by the abnormal growth of cells that may invade adjacent tissues. In Brazil, it is the third most common cancer among women and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate CC mortality in Brazil from 2013 to 2022, considering states, regions, and age groups. METHODOLOGY: A descriptive and observational study utilizing data from the INCA Mortality Atlas on CC (ICD C53). Mortality rates per 100,000 inhabitants were analyzed by states and regions. RESULTS: From 2013 to 2022, 62,175 CC-related deaths occurred, with 2022 recording the highest number (6,983). Amazonas had the highest adjusted mortality rate (13.81 deaths/100,000), followed by Amapá (9.93) and Maranhão (9.66), while São Paulo (3.98) and Minas Gerais (4.05) had the lowest rates. The Northern region had the highest rate (9.38), while the Southeast recorded the lowest (4.52). The most affected age group was 50–59 years, with 13,477 deaths, followed by 40–49 years (12,422) and 60–69 years (11,840). CONCLUSION: CC mortality in Brazil shows significant regional disparities, with the North region presenting the highest rates. Factors such as limited access to healthcare and socioeconomic inequalities highlight the urgent need to expand HPV vaccination, screening programs, and health education initiatives.