Prostate Cancer in Brazil (2014–2024): A portrait of a decade

Abstract

Introduction: Prostate cancer remains the most prevalent neoplasm among men in Brazil and a significant Public Health issue. Despite advances in diagnosis and treatment, mortality and the costs associated with the disease remain high. Objective: To describe the epidemiological panorama of prostate cancer in Brazil from 2014 to 2024, considering incidence, mortality, the Mortality-to-Incidence Ratio (MIR), regional and racial distribution, and economic impact. Methods: This was an ecological, quantitative, and cross-sectional study based on secondary data from DATASUS (SIH/SUS and SVSA/IBGE). All cases of prostate cancer (ICD-10: C61) reported in Brazil between 2014 and 2024 were included. Descriptive analyses were performed, and the MIR was calculated as an indirect indicator of survival and healthcare effectiveness. Results: During the study period, 336,539 cases were recorded, with the highest concentration in the Southeast and Northeast regions. The age group of 60 to 79 years accounted for approximately 72% (241.060) of diagnoses. The average mortality rate was 9.28 deaths per 100,000 men, with the highest values observed in the North Region.The MIR indicated better performance in the Northeast, Southeast, and South regions, while the North and Central-West regions showed relatively worse outcomes. The total treatment cost exceeded R$ 1.02 billion, predominantly concentrated in the Southeast. Racial disparities were also observed, with higher mortality rates among indigenous individuals. Conclusion: The findings reveal persistent regional, economic, and ethnic-racial disparities in prostate cancer in Brazil, indicating that unequal access to health services directly impacts survival and disease outcomes.