CONDUCT AND PROCEDURES IN PRIMARY HEALTH CARE FOR SCREENING OF NON-COMMUNICABLE CHRONIC DISEASES: AN INTEGRATIVE LITERATURE REVIEW

Abstract

 Introduction: Non-communicable chronic diseases (NCDs) — particularly systemic arterial hypertension (SAH), diabetes mellitus (DM), and dyslipidemias — represent the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in Brazil and worldwide. Primary Health Care (PHC) is the privileged setting for early screening and longitudinal management of these conditions; however, a significant gap persists between evidence-based recommendations and clinical practice. Objective: To analyze available scientific evidence on recommended conduct and procedures in PHC for screening of SAH, DM, and dyslipidemias, identifying barriers, effective interventions, and strategies for improving early detection. PICO question: In adults attending PHC (P), which screening conduct and procedures (I) are associated with early detection and adequate control of SAH, DM, and dyslipidemias (O), according to evidence published between 2021 and 2026 (T)? Methods: Integrative literature review in PubMed/MEDLINE and VHL (LILACS), covering 2021–2026, conducted according to PRISMA 2020. Results: Twenty-five studies were included. SAH remains the second largest attributable global risk factor (7.8% DALYs, GBD 2021) and the largest in GBD 2023 (8.4%). Community-based DM2 screening via point-of-care testing proved feasible across 33 studies in 13 countries. Only 2.6–6.7% of eligible Brazilian PHC patients receive statins. CDSS-based interventions and HEARTS 2.0 significantly improved blood pressure control. Community and digital interventions reduced SBP by 4–7 mmHg in vulnerable populations. Conclusion: PHC requires integrated protocols, multidisciplinary teams, and support technologies to increase NCD screening and control rates in the Brazilian SUS.