IMPACTS OF THE COVID-19 PANDEMIC ON BREAST CANCER SCREENING, HOSPITALIZATIONS, AND MORTALITY IN PARANÁ: ANALYSIS OF PINK OCTOBER DATA (2017–2022)

Abstract

Breast cancer is the most common malignant neoplasm among women and one of the leading causes of female mortality worldwide, representing a major challenge for health systems. In Brazil, the Pink October campaigns play a key role in raising awareness and promoting mammographic screening. However, the COVID-19 pandemic imposed significant restrictions on healthcare services, negatively affecting early diagnosis and continuity of oncological care. Objective: To analyze the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on breast cancer screening, hospitalizations, and mortality indicators in the state of Paraná, focusing on Pink October campaigns between 2017 and 2022. Methods: This is a retrospective and quantitative study based on secondary data obtained from the Department of Informatics of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS). Data were extracted from the Mortality Information System (SIM), Hospital Information System (SIH/SUS), and Breast Cancer Information System (SISMAMA/TABNET). The indicators analyzed included the number of mammograms performed, hospitalizations, and deaths due to breast cancer. Mean values for the pre-pandemic (2017–2019) and pandemic (2020–2022) periods were compared, with emphasis on October. Data were organized and analyzed descriptively using absolute and percentage variations.Conclusion: The results revealed a marked reduction in mammographic screening during the pandemic, particularly in 2020 (–48.8% compared to 2019), with partial recovery in subsequent years. Hospital admissions decreased among women aged 40–69 years and increased among younger and older age groups. Mortality showed a slight overall reduction (–13%), but a proportional increase among women aged 30–39 years and over 70 years. These findings demonstrate that the pandemic significantly compromised breast cancer screening and access to treatment. Although Pink October remained an important mobilizing strategy, it was insufficient to offset pandemic-related losses. The study reinforces the need for continuous public health policies ensuring equitable access to breast cancer screening and comprehensive care beyond seasonal campaigns