Caracterização epidemiológica de casos de câncer de mama diagnosticados no estado de Minas Gerais e microrregião do Triângulo Mineiro

Abstract

Breast cancer is widely recognized as a pressing public health issue in Brazil, representing the most common type of neoplasia among women. These lesions show significant rates of both incidence and mortality, posing a substantial challenge for the Unified Health System. This study aimed to survey the number of breast cancer cases in Minas Gerais, Triângulo Mineiro, and Ituiutaba, correlating the data collected with sociodemographic factors. Using a quantitative approach, we investigated confirmed breast cancer cases through histopathological exams reported between 2014 and 2023. Data was collected from the Unified Health System's Informatics Department (DataSUS) and the Cancer Information System (SISCAN). During the analysis period, 33,519 exams were recorded in the regions of Minas Gerais, Triângulo Mineiro, and Ituiutaba. In 2019, there was a 14.30% increase in registered cases, followed by a sharp decline of 3.10% from 2020, attributed to the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic. Among the exams performed, 44.52% had positive results, predominantly among women (99.24%) aged 50 to 69 years. Low educational levels were considered a sociodemographic factor associated with late breast cancer diagnoses. Mammography emerged as the most effective method for early detection of precursor lesions. Ensuring that all women have adequate access to and are encouraged to adopt preventive measures against breast cancer is imperative, regardless of individual risk factors. These measures include clinical breast exams, mammograms, and the promotion of breast self-exams.