1149 – Mammography coverage and breast cancer in Roraima from 2020 to 2024

Abstract

Introduction: Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death among Brazilian women and the most common
cancer in this population. Early diagnosis is crucial, offering up to a 95% survival rate. The Instituto Nacional de Câncer
(INCA) estimated approximately 73,610 new cases in Brazil for 2025. The state of Roraima presents one of the highest
mortality rates in the country, with 17.38 deaths per 100,000 women in 2023. Screening mammography for women aged
50–69 years (extended up to 74 years according to recent public health guidelines) is recommended every two years and
remains the most effective strategy to reduce mortality, enabling early detection in asymptomatic women.
Objective: To evaluate screening mammography coverage and breast cancer mortality from 2020 to 2024, and to assess
the effectiveness of public health policies aimed at early detection in the state of Roraima.
Methods: A descriptive study using secondary data from the Outpatient Information System of the Brazilian Unified
Health System (SIA/SUS) and INCA. Data on screening mammography (women aged 50–69 years) and mortality were
analyzed. Coverage rates were calculated as the ratio between approved exams and the target population defined by the
Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE).
Results: Breast cancer mortality rates in Roraima showed a significant upward trend, increasing from 7.92 per 100,000
women in 2020 to 15.58 per 100,000 in 2024 (≈97% increase). Screening mammography coverage declined over the same
period, with 2,326 exams performed in 2020 to 1,391 in 2024. A total of 8,761 exams were performed during the study period.
Conclusion: The increase in mortality associated with reduced screening coverage suggests low adherence to early detection and possible inefficiencies in local public health policies. Strengthening screening strategies and expanding access
to early diagnosis are essential to improve women’s health outcomes in Roraima.
Ethics: Public data.