A política pública de rastreamento do câncer sob a lente das usuárias: um estudo de caso no Instituto de Prevenção do Câncer do Ceará

Abstract

At the beginning of the 21st century, Brazil experienced a significant increase in the burden of chronic diseases, including cancer. An estimated 704,000 new cancer cases are expected annually in Brazil during the 2023–2025 period. Among women, breast cancer is the most common (after non-melanoma skin cancer), with 74,000 new cases projected per year until 2025. Cervical cancer remains a major concern in regions with lower Human Development Indexes. The Cancer Prevention Institute of Ceará performs diagnoses of breast and cervical cancer— the focus of this study—and receives patients referred by primary healthcare units through the state’s patient regulation system. However, it also operates with an open-door policy, welcoming women seeking clarification about exams conducted in other healthcare facilities. To investigate this, a study was conducted with the objective of evaluating the public health policy for the control of cervical and breast cancer in a secondary care unit in the state of Ceará. A descriptive qualitative approach was adopted to extract the most comprehensive information possible. Semi-structured interviews were used, as they allow for a greater degree of predetermined responses. Content analysis guided the interpretation of the data, aiming to understand the subjective and social aspects behind the numbers and to contribute to more in-depth evaluations beyond the mere attribution of effectiveness to public policies designed for the common good. The results revealed important data on patient access and reception, indicating challenges related to the patient regulation process. The content analysis of the interviews identified patterns in participants’ perceptions, highlighting both progress and weaknesses in the implementation of cancer control strategies—not only due to the structure of services but also because of social vulnerability. Welcoming practices and valuing women's voices emerge as fundamental tools for improving public policies, ensuring more humane and effective care. This study contributes to the understanding of access to specialized services and reinforces the need for in-depth evaluations to enhance the effectiveness of public policies aimed at women's health.