TEMPORAL AND SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC FACTOR ANALYSIS OF CANCER MORTALITY IN BRAZIL, 2018–2024

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the spatial distribution and temporal trend of mortality due to neoplasms in Brazil, according to sociodemographic characteristics, regions, federal units, and primary anatomical sites, from 2018 to 2024. Methods: A descriptive, retrospective, ecological epidemiological study with a quantitative approach, using secondary data from the Mortality Information System (SIM/DATASUS). All deaths due to malignant neoplasms (ICD-10: C00–C97) occurring in Brazil between 2018 and 2024 were included. The variables analyzed comprised the region and federal unit of residence, sex, age group, race/color, education level, and primary site of the neoplasm. Descriptive analysis using absolute and relative frequencies was performed, alongside simple linear regression to assess temporal trends, considering a 5% significance level. Results: A total of 1,692,217 deaths due to neoplasms were recorded in Brazil between 2018 and 2024. The Southeast region accounted for the highest number of deaths (46.6%), followed by the Northeast (22.5%) and South (18.9%) regions; São Paulo, Minas Gerais, and Rio de Janeiro stood out among the federal units. An upward trend in mortality was observed across all Brazilian regions, with the largest percentage increases in the North and Center-West regions. Significant increases occurred in both sexes—though more pronounced among women—and mortality rose from age 25 onwards, particularly in the 65-and-older age groups. Upward trends were also observed across race/color categories and among individuals with higher levels of education. Lung cancer accounted for the highest number of deaths, followed by breast, prostate, stomach, and colon cancers. Final considerations: Cancer mortality increased in Brazil during the period analyzed, with significant regional and sociodemographic inequalities. The findings reinforce the need to strengthen prevention, early diagnosis, and timely access to cancer treatment, contributing to the planning of public policies aimed at the most vulnerable regions and population groups.