Analysis of the progression of cervical cytology screening coverage and cervical cancer incidence following the implementation of the Previne Brasil program

Abstract

Introduction: Cervical cancer is one of the main causes of morbidity and mortality among women, accounting for about 660 thousand new cases and 350 thousand deaths in 2022, according to the World Health Organization. In Brazil, it is the third most frequent cancer among women, with an estimated 16,590 new cases in 2020. The Ministry of Health recommends cervical cytology screening for women aged 25 to 64 years every three years after two consecutive normal results. In 2019, the Previne Brasil Program was created to expand coverage and improve the quality of Primary Health Care, providing financial incentives to municipalities that met targets such as 40% coverage of cytology tests. Objective: To analyze the evolution of preventive exams coverage and the incidence of cervical cancer in the Seventh Health Regional of the state of Paraná, in the very state, and in the South and Southeast regions of Brazil between 2018 and 2023. Methods: A cross-sectional quantitative study was conducted using data from the Primary Care Information System and the Oncology Panel of the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System, analyzing coverage and incidence rates by region and municipality. Results: There was a progressive increase in exams coverage, although still below the established targets. We verified improvements in the Seventh Health Regional, with variability among municipalities. In addition, we observed a correlation between increased coverage and higher detection of cases. Conclusions: The expansion of cervical cytology screening shows positive results, but challenges remain. Human papillomavirus vaccination and the strengthening of Previne Brasil targets are essential strategies to reduce cervical cancer incidence.