Epidemiological analysis of hospitalizations by malignant skin neoplasms, in the Northeast region, from 2019 to 2023

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Malignant skin neoplasm is the most common type of cancer in Brazil, representing about 30% of all malignant tumors diagnosed. In the Northeast region, the high incidence of ultraviolet radiation results in elevated skin cancer rates, leading to a significant number of hospitalizations. OBJECTIVE: To analyze and describe the epidemiology of hospitalizations related to malignant skin neoplasm in the Northeast region from 2019 to 2023. METHODOLOGY: This is a descriptive, quantitative, and retrospective epidemiological study on hospitalizations for malignant skin neoplasm in the Northeast region, from January 2019 to December 2023. Data were collected from the SUS Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS) through the DATASUS platform. Variables such as region/federative unit, processing year, age group, sex, race/color, type of care, and total cost were selected. The data were analyzed and tabulated using Microsoft Excel and presented in tables and charts in Microsoft Word. RESULTS: There were 5,759 hospitalizations by malignant skin neoplasm in the Northeast from 2019 to 2023. Pernambuco had the highest number of hospitalizations (1,782), while Sergipe had the lowest (107 cases, 1.86%). A 28.3% decrease in hospitalizations was observed from 2019 to 2020, with the lowest number of hospitalizations in 2020 and the peak in 2023, with 1,458 cases (25.3%). The most affected age group was 60 to 69 years, with 1,189 cases (20.65%). There was a slight predominance of males (53%), and self-reported mixed-race individuals led with 4,266 hospitalizations (74%). The total expenditure on the disease was R$ 11,130,040.95, with 3,810 procedures (66.2%) being elective. CONCLUSION: The study concludes that hospitalizations for malignant skin neoplasm continue to rise in the Northeast region. The epidemiological profile points to men aged 60 to 69, mixed-race individuals, and residents of Pernambuco. It is crucial to ensure access to quality dermatological and oncological treatment and to promote awareness about sun protection and skin cancer prevention.