Ocorrência e acesso ao tratamento do câncer de boca no Brasil: estudo ecológico de 2013-2023

Abstract

This study aimed to analyze the temporal evolution and geographic distribution of oral cancer in Brazil between 2013 and 2023. This is an ecological study based on secondary data from health information systems (DATASUS, SIH, and Oncology Panel). The number of cases was analyzed, considering ICD-10 codes C00 to C08. In addition, information on mortality, hospitalizations, availability, and waiting time to start treatment was also analyzed. A total of 106,520 cases of oral cancer were recorded during the period, with an increase observed from 2018 onward, representing a 110% rise in the annual average of diagnoses—from 1,050 to 2,205 cases/year between the compared five-year periods (2013–2017 vs. 2018–2023). A predominance of cases was observed in sites C02 (other parts of the tongue) and C06 (other parts of the mouth), with higher concentrations in the Southeast, South, and Northeast regions. The North region showed the lowest absolute numbers of cases and treatments. Most patients began treatment more than 60 days after diagnosis, and although mortality rates remained relatively stable, regional inequalities in access to diagnosis and care persist. The findings reinforce the importance of epidemiological surveillance and the improvement of health information systems as strategic tools to address oral cancer in Brazil.