HOSPITALIZATIONS FOR HIV/AIDS IN THE STATE OF PARANÁ (2021-2023): AN EPIDEMIOLOGICAL ANALYSIS

Abstract

This study analyzes HIV/AIDS hospitalizations in the state of Paraná between 2021 and 2023, focusing on the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on access to health services and the ongoing treatment of people living with HIV. During this period, there was a reduction in HIV testing, which resulted in late diagnoses and, consequently, an increase in hospitalizations due to serious complications associated with the progression of the disease. The study revealed that the pandemic exacerbated preexisting challenges, such as abandonment of antiretroviral therapy, especially among young people and vulnerable populations, increasing the risk of emergency hospitalizations. Geospatial analysis showed that hospitalizations were more prevalent in metropolitan areas such as Curitiba, Londrina, and Maringá, regions where factors such as high population density and socioeconomic inequality exacerbate the spread of the infection and hospitalizations. Furthermore, access barriers and social stigma hinder treatment adherence, especially in rural areas, where access to health services is more limited. The results point to the need for more effective public policies that promote early diagnosis, ensure treatment continuity, and reduce inequalities in access to healthcare, with the goal of reducing the number of hospitalizations and improving the quality of life of people living with HIV/AIDS in Paraná.