28585 – ANALYSIS OF THE AVERAGE TIME TO RECEIVE HISTOLOGICAL DIAGNOSIS OF BREAST PATHOLOGIES IN BRAZIL

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among Brazilian women. Early diagnosis is crucial to increase the chances of cure, and histopathology is fundamental for the correct diagnosis and medical management.
It is an essential component of the process. This article analyzes the average time to receive the histopathological diagnosis
of breast pathologies in Brazil, considering Law 12.732/2012, which guarantees individuals with suspected breast cancer
the performance of necessary diagnostic tests within 30 days. Methodology: An ecological, retrospective, quantitative,
and descriptive study, whose data were obtained from consultations in the Cancer Information System – SISCAN (cervix
and breast), through the platform of the Department of Informatics of the Unified Health System (DATASUS), referring to
the period from 2013 to 2023, in all 26 states of the Brazilian federation, including the Federal District. The analysis also
considered the distribution of results by waiting time (up to 30 days, 31–60 days, and more than 60 days). Conclusion: The
average time of 35.4 days to receive the histopathological diagnosis of breast pathologies in Brazil is in line with the recommendation of the Brazilian Society of Pathology (SBP), which is up to 45 days. However, it does not correspond to the deadline stipulated by Law 12.732/2012, which guarantees individuals with suspected breast cancer the performance of necessary diagnostic tests within 30 days. Additionally, it is important to note that some states and regions of the country do
not respect the deadline of either regulatory body, such as the North and Northeast regions, which presented the longest
average times, with 52 and 50 days, respectively. Issues such as location, demand, and case complexity may be some of
the factors influencing the delay in the release of histological reports. Furthermore, we emphasize that the availability of
human and material resources to perform histopathological exams varies between states. The high demand for exams
can lead to increased waiting times, especially in Northeastern states, which have high numbers of histology exams for
breast pathologies. Therefore, aiming to reduce regional disparities, investing in infrastructure and professional training
to reduce waiting times in states with longer average times is essential, in addition to expanding the availability of histopathological exams to reduce the waiting list.