Violência doméstica contra mulheres na cidade de Uberlândia - MG: impacto na saúde oral e no sistema de saúde pública

Abstract

Domestic violence is a global problem that affects millions of women, causing significant physical, emotional, and social harm. Among its physical consequences, facial fractures and dental trauma have a particularly important impact due to their visibility and potential functional impairment. In this context, Brazil has one of the highest rates of domestic violence and femicide in the world. Such crimes, committed by partners and relatives, do not follow cultural or economic patterns, affecting women of all ages, social classes, and regions of the country. The State, therefore, represents the only accessible health resource for many of these women and bears the increasing costs within the Sistema Único de Saúde (SUS). This study aimed to investigate the dental consequences of domestic violence against women, with a specific focus on its impact on the SUS and a spatial analysis centered on the city of Uberlândia, Minas Gerais. A multidisciplinary approach was adopted, combining a review of the scientific literature with an analysis of the intersection between gender-based violence and victims’ oral health. The study design was based on records and interviews with women experiencing violence who were assisted by the ONG SOS Mulheres, complemented by statistical analysis. The analysis revealed a prevalence of primary care visits (70%), followed by secondary or specialized care (35%) and tertiary care (19%). Additionally, interview data indicated that violence persisted in many cases and was associated with other socioeconomic factors. It is concluded that the number of women who remained without care (8,1%) requires attention, reinforcing the importance of the actions proposed in Law nº 15.116 of 2025. The results indicated a significant impact on the health system, with secondary and tertiary levels exceeding 50% of all services, requiring procedures with higher material and human costs. Keywords: Forensic dentistry, Traumatology,