INEQUITIES IN CERVICAL CANCER SCREENING IN THE BRAZILIAN UNIFIED HEALTH SYSTEM: COVERAGE OF CYTOPATHOLOGICAL EXAMINATION AND SOCIAL DETERMINANTS

Abstract

Cervical cancer is a serious public health problem in Brazil, and it can be prevented through cytopathological examination, although inequalities persist in access to screening. The objective of this study was to examine inequalities in screening within the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS), focusing on screening coverage and related social factors. This is a literature review with a qualitative and descriptive approach, based on studies published between 2022 and 2026 in scientific repositories and official documents. The results show that, although the examination is widely available, its coverage is still insufficient and unequal, concentrating on certain groups and excluding vulnerable populations. In addition to cultural barriers, such as fear and lack of information, there are regional, racial, and socioeconomic inequalities that hinder adherence to screening. The discussion highlights deficiencies in the structure of the opportunistic model implemented in the country and the demand for more efficient strategies. To reduce these inequalities, it is necessary to strengthen Primary Care, implement organized screening, and promote actions aimed at health equity.