TEMPORAL ANALYSIS OF PATTERNS OF DIAGNOSIS, HOSPITALIZATION AND DEATH FROM PROSTATE NEOPLASMS IN ELDERLY IN AMAZONAS

Abstract

According to the National Cancer Institute (INCA), prostate cancer is characterized by the abnormal growth of cells in the prostate gland, and can have a slow or aggressive progression. In Brazil, it represents the second most common neoplasm among men and one of the main causes of male mortality, with late diagnosis being one of the main challenges due to the absence of symptoms in the initial stages. In the state of Amazonas, incidence rates are among the highest in the Northern Region, which reinforces the need for effective prevention and early detection strategies. Given this scenario, the objective of this study was to analyze the evolution of diagnoses, hospitalizations, and deaths from prostate cancer in the state of Amazonas between 2021 and 2024, with an emphasis on the elderly population. This is an epidemiological, quantitative, descriptive, and retrospective study, based on data from DATASUS and the Amazonas State Oncology Control Center Foundation (FCECON). The results showed a significant increase in all indicators: 868 diagnoses, with the highest incidence among men aged 65 to 69 years; 449 hospitalizations, predominantly in the 70-74 age group; and 71 deaths, mainly among those aged 80 years or older. These findings confirm the influence of aging on the progression of the disease and the vulnerability of this population. Thus, the study achieved its objectives by allowing an understanding of the behavior of the disease in Amazonas and reinforcing the importance of public policies aimed at prevention and promotion of men's health.