Ecological study on breast cancer screening in the central-west region

epidemiological analysis of mammographies performed by the the brazilian unified health system

Abstract

Breast cancer is a major public health concern, and mammography plays a fundamental role in its early detection. This study aimed to analyze the epidemiological profile of mammograms performed within the Brazilian Unified Health System in the Central-West Region of Brazil between 2017 and 2025, considering temporal, regional, and sociodemographic aspects. This ecological time-series study, with a descriptive and analytical design, was based on secondary data from the Cancer Information System (SISCAN/DATASUS) and included the states of Goiás, Mato Grosso, and Mato Grosso do Sul, as well as the Federal District. The variables analyzed were age group, race/skin color, screening interval, and BI-RADS classification, according to period and federative unit of residence. During the study period, 1,713,676 mammograms were recorded, with Goiás accounting for the highest absolute number. A marked decline in examinations occurred in 2020, followed by a recovery in subsequent years, reaching the highest volume in 2023. Women aged 50–59 and 40–49 years accounted for 38.02% and 32.35% of examinations, respectively. Differences were observed in the distribution of records according to race/skin color, while BI-RADS categories 2, 1, and 0 predominated. These findings demonstrate temporal, regional, and sociodemographic variations in mammography records within the Brazilian Unified Health System in the Central-West Region and reinforce the importance of improving data quality, expanding access to mammography, and ensuring appropriate follow-up of inconclusive or suspicious findings to strengthen the breast cancer care pathway.