Analysis of the epidemiological profile of women aged 40 to 49 years who underwent mammography through the Unified Health System in a city in the central-west region of Paraná, between 2020 and 2025

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the epidemiological profile of women aged 40 to 49 years who underwent mammography through the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS) in a city in the central-west region of Paraná, between 2020 and 2025. Methods: This retrospective, observational, descriptive epidemiological study used data from DATASUS (SISCAN/TabNet). Variables analyzed included age group, examination purpose, mammography history, presence of nodules, and BI-RADS classification. Descriptive statistics (absolute and relative frequencies) and temporal trend analysis were applied. Results: A total of 15,221 mammograms were recorded, of which 3,144 (21%) were in the studied age group. There was a reduction in exams in 2020 and 2021, associated with the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by an increase in 2022 and 2023, suggesting pent-up demand. Most examinations were performed for screening purposes (91%). Results without nodules or with benign findings (BI-RADS 1 and 2) predominated. An increase in BI-RADS categories 3 and 4 was observed, indicating greater detection of lesions requiring further investigation. Conclusion: Despite increased demand, screening coverage remains limited. Expanding access may favor early diagnosis and support public policies aimed at reducing breast cancer morbidity and mortality.