Epidemiological profile of mortality due to cortical malignant neoplasms in Paraíba from 2012 to 2022 (INCA)

Introduction: Neoplasia is the abnormal development of cells that can generate tumors. Malignant cortical neoplasms, which include primary and metastatic tumors of the central nervous system, are public health challenges due to their high clinical-surgical complexity and high morbidity and mortality. In Brazil, the analysis of cancer mortality is crucial for health policies. The state of Paraíba, in the Brazilian Northeast region, presents a particular epidemiological profile that reflects socioeconomic conditions and access to health services, highlighting the need for targeted strategies.

Objective: To analyze the mortality profile due to cortical malignant neoplasms in the state of Paraíba between 2012 and 2022.

Method: Selection and analysis of data obtained by the National Cancer Institute (INCA) regarding mortality due to cortical malignant neoplasms (ICD 10 – C71.0) in Paraíba during the period from 2012 to 2022.

Results: 1,884 deaths due to cortical malignant neoplasms were recorded in Paraíba during the study period, resulting in the highest mortality rate in the Northeast region, with 4.31 deaths for every 100,000 inhabitants. On a national level, the state had the fifth highest mortality rate, surpassed only by the states of Rio Grande do Sul, Paraná, Santa Catarina and Rio de Janeiro. Comparing the first and last year analyzed, there was an increase of 17.28% in the rate in Paraíba, 10.73% in the Northeast region and 7% in Brazil. The majority of deaths (70.9%) occurred in individuals over 50 years of age, with emphasis on the age group of 60 to 69 years, which represented 22.9% of cases.

Conclusion: The analysis of the epidemiological data allowed us to outline the mortality profile due to cortical neoplasms in Paraíba, highlighting a serious public health problem. The state ranks first in the region and fifth nationally in number of deaths. Therefore, the importance of implementing measures to improve early diagnosis and improve access to treatment for the population of Paraíba is emphasized, especially for the most affected age group, in order to minimize regional disparities in access to healthcare.

Corresponding author: Letícia Bezerra de Almeida (e-mail: leticiabezerradealmeida@hotmail.com).