Fiscal austerity and the health sector: the cost of adjustments

Trends and spatial distribution of the burden of vaccine-preventable diseases in children under five in Brazil from 2000 to 2019

OBJECTIVE

To analyze mortality burden and spatial distribution of vaccine-preventable diseases in children under five in Brazil from 2000 to 2019.

STUDY DESIGN

Ecological study.

METHODS

Study using vaccination coverage data from 2000 to 2019 across 5570 Brazilian municipalities, and mortality estimates from the Global Burden of Disease 2019. Spatial analyses were conducted to identify statistically significant clusters (p < 0.05) and spatial autocorrelation.

RESULTS

There was a reduction in mortality from vaccine-preventable diseases in Brazil between 2000 and 2019. The North and Northeast regions showed high mortality rates and lower vaccination coverage compared to other regions.

CONCLUSIONS

Infant mortality in Brazil decreased significantly, especially after improvements in vaccination coverage. However, this reduction was not uniform, with the North and Northeast regions showing clusters of high mortality.

Global Health "With Justice": The Challenges and Opportunities for Human Rights in Global Health Law

Human rights offer to ground global health law in equity and justice. Human rights norms, advocacy, and strategies have proven successes in challenging private and public inequities and in realizing more equitable domestic and global health governance. However, mobilizing human rights within global health law faces enormous political, economic, technological, and epidemiological challenges, including from the corrosive health impacts of power, politics, and commerce. This article focuses on what human rights could bring to three major global health law challenges - health systems strengthening and universal health coverage, the commercial and economic determinants of health, and pandemic disease threats. We argue that human rights offer potentially powerful norms and strategies for achieving equity and justice in these and other key global health domains. The challenge for those working in human rights and global health law is to work nimbly, creatively, and courageously to strengthen the contribution of these instruments to health justice.

Changes in the prevalence of severe anxiety and depression symptoms and the associated factors in adults living in Manaus: a comparison of two cross-sectional studies conducted in 2015 and 2019

BACKGROUND

Emotional distress increases, also affected by the setting.

OBJECTIVE

To estimate changes in prevalence of severe anxiety and depressive symptoms and associated factors.

DESIGN AND SETTING

This cross-sectional study included adults living in Manaus selected through a three-stage probability sampling in 2015 and 2019.

METHODS

This is an analysis of two surveys conducted. The outcomes were assessed by Generalized Anxiety Disorder 7-item (≥ 15 points) and Patient Health Questionnaire 9-item (≥ 20), and changes were tested by chi-square goodness-of-fit. Prevalence ratios (PR) with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were calculated by Poisson regression.

RESULTS

Severe anxiety symptoms increased from 3.3% (95%CI = 2.7-3.9) in 2015 (n = 3,479) to 8.7% (95%CI = 7.5-9.8) in 2019 (n = 2,321); severe depressive symptoms changed from 2.5% (95%CI = 2.0-3.0) to 8.5% (95%CI = 7.3-9.6). Variations were more pronounced in social vulnerability (P < 0.05). Outcomes were higher in women (anxiety: PR = 1.27; 95%CI = 1.20-1.34, depression: PR = 1.35; 95%CI = 1.27-1.44), low-income individuals (anxiety: PR = 1.90; 95%CI = 1.20-3.00, depression: PR = 1.98; 95%CI = 1.22-3.19), less educated individuals (anxiety: PR = 2.20; 95%CI = 1.16-4.18, depression: PR = 2.37; 95%CI = 1.23-4.60), and individuals with poor health status (anxiety: PR = 9.06; 95%CI = 6.72-12.21, depression: PR = 8.99; 95%CI = 6.67-12.12).

CONCLUSION

Severe anxiety and depression tripled in Manaus, potentially reflecting Brazilian socioeconomic crises.

Burden of disease attributable to risk factors: Estimates of the Global Burden of Disease from 1990 to 2021

OBJECTIVES

Analyze the burden of diseases attributable to risk factors (RF) in Brazil according to age, sex, and Brazilian states between 1990 and 2021.

METHODS

This study used data from the Global Burden of Disease study 1990 to 2021. The metrics used in this analysis included: mortality rates, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs) and Summary Exposure Value (SEV). A ranking of the risk factors was created by highlighting the changes between 1990 and 2021, according to sex, age group, and Brazilian state. RF were analyzed according to the Socio-Demographic Index (SDI).

RESULTS

Decline the risk factors of tobacco (-50.2 %), environmental: water, sanitation and hand washing (-58.0 %), and air pollution (-45.0 %), as well as an increase in the burden attributable to BMI (+78.4 %), alcohol consumption (+15.7 %). High systolic blood pressure ranked first in all states in 2021, followed by high blood glucose; tobacco ranking third in most states. The burden of diseases attributable to RFs in Brazil varied considerably between men and women, age groups, and states. Trends in the period from 1990 to 2021 showed a strong correlation with the SDI, better results being observed in states with higher SDI.

CONCLUSIONS

High blood pressure, high BMI and tobacco are the main risk factors for mortality and DALYs in 2021. The burden of disease has a high correlation with socio-economic indicator (SDI). It is important to strengthen public policies that promote healthy lifestyles, thus reducing disease and death.

The Role of Race in Deaths of Despair in Brazil: Is it a White People Problem?

BACKGROUND

A new paradigm has been discussed regarding the impact of economic cycles on the mortality pattern from specific causes. These causes are called deaths of despair, and they selectively impact specific demographic groups. Also, low- and middle-income countries are most affected due to their economic and social instability. In this sense, the objective of study was to compare the magnitude of disparity in deaths from despair according to sex, age, and race in Brazil.

METHODS

We performed Poisson regression modeling to estimate the magnitude of the association between sex, age group, race, and deaths from despair. Also, we estimated the relationship of time as a proxy of economic crisis phase and deaths of despair.

RESULTS

We found an association between mortality from despair and male sex (PR = 6.15, 95%CI 6.09-6.22); emphasis on the age groups from 40 to 49 years old (PR = 2.45, 95% CI 2.41-2.48) and 50 to 59 years old (PR = 2.39, 95% CI 2.36-2.43); and brown (PR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.20-1.22) and black race (PR = 1.36, 95% CI 1.34-1.37).

CONCLUSIONS

The present study preliminarily presents the effect of the economic crisis and mortality in the population, with demographic differences. Association with race was opposite to that verified in the original study in the USA, which suggests that this variable should be analyzed in the light of structural context.

Determinants of public health expenditure in the EU

BACKGROUND

Public health expenditure is one of the fastest-growing spending items in EU member states. As the population ages and wealth increases, governments allocate more resources to their health systems. In view of this, the aim of this study is to identify the key determinants of public health expenditure in the EU member states.

METHODS

This study is based on macro-level EU panel data covering the period from 2000 to 2018. The association between explanatory variables and public health expenditure is analyzed by applying both static and dynamic econometric modeling.

RESULTS

Although GDP and out-of-pocket health expenditure are identified as the key drivers of public health expenditure, there are other variables, such as health system characteristics, with a statistically significant association with expenditure. Other variables, such as election year and the level of public debt, result to exert only a modest influence on the level of public health expenditure. Results also indicate that the aging of the population, political ideologies of governments and citizens' expectations, appear to be statistically insignificant.

CONCLUSION

Since increases in public health expenditure in EU member states are mainly triggered by GDP increases, it is expected that differences in PHE per capita across member states will persist and, consequently, making it more difficult to attain the health equity sustainable development goal. Thus, measures to reduce EU economic inequalities, will ultimately result in reducing disparities in public health expenditures across member states.

Mortality by avoidable causes in Brazil from 1990 to 2019: data from the Global Burden of Disease Study

OBJECTIVES

The aim of this study was to analyse the trends of avoidable mortality in Brazil from 1990 to 2019 and its correlation with sociodemographic indexes (SDIs).

STUDY DESIGN

Epidemiological mortality trends.

METHODS

This study analysed data from the Global Burden of Disease database. The list of causes of avoidable death, as proposed by Nolte and McKee, was applied and included 32 causes. The current study used age-standardised mortality rates and the rates of change, in addition to a correlation analysis between avoidable death and the SDI.

RESULTS

Mortality rates decreased from 343.90/100,000 inhabitants in 1990 to 155.80/100,000 inhabitants in 2019. Infectious diseases showed the largest decline in mortality rates, but notable decreases were also found for diarrhoeal diseases (-94.9%), maternal conditions (-66.5%) and neonatal conditions (-60.5%). Mortality rates for non-communicable diseases (NCDs) also decreased (-48%) but maintained a similar absolute number of deaths in 2019 compared with 1990. Decreased mortality rates were also found for ischaemic heart disease (-49.1%), stroke (-61.4%) and deaths due to adverse effects caused by medical treatments (-26.2%). Avoidable mortality rates declined in all of the 27 Brazilian states, and a high correlation was found between deaths and SDI (R = -0.74; P < 0.000001).

CONCLUSIONS

A reduction in avoidable deaths was found throughout Brazil over the study period, although major regional inequalities were revealed. Richer states presented the best overall reduction in mortality rates. The biggest decreases in mortality were seen in maternal and paediatric infectious diseases in the poorest states due to the expansion of the Primary Health System and improvements in sanitation. Today, NCDs predominate and efforts should be made to formulate public policies for the prevention and control of NCDs.

COVID-19, SDGs and public health systems: Linkages in Brazil

Background

The global 2030 Agenda covers a range of interconnected issues which need interdisciplinary and holistic approaches to improve human well-being and protect the natural environment. The COVID-19 pandemic has brought to light critical inequities in society and policy gaps in health services. As highlighted through analyses of the interlinkages among the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), connections between human health and well-being and the environment, can help support new policy needs in addressing systemic health crises, including widespread pandemics.

Method

We identify links between the COVID-19 crisis and multiple SDGs in the context of Brazil based on a review of the current literature in the health sector.Findings: We identify synergistic connections between 88 out of 169 SDG targets and COVID-19, notably around themes such as City Environment, Contextual Policies and the value created by improved Information and Technology. Using the context of the Brazilian National Health Service (SUS) highlights recurrent interconnections from the focal point of target 3.8. This includes topics such as challenges for universal healthcare coverage, budget allocation, and universalisation.

Conclusions

The framework developed for supporting policy-making decisions and the design of toolkits for dealing with future health-related emergency scenarios offers a practical solution in the health sector. It is worth noting that progress and action on public health systems and policies must go hand in hand with addressing existing socio-economic vulnerabilities in society. This is vital for tackling future pandemics and simultaneously addressing the SDGs.

Are austerity measures really distressing? Evidence from Italy

Since 2007 financial recovery plans have been adopted by some Italian regions to contain the costs of the healthcare sector. It is legitimate to ask whether spending cuts associated with the austerity policy have had any effect on the health of the citizens. We examine the indirect impact of financial recovery plans on a broad set of health indicators, accounting for several dimensions of both physical and psychological diseases. We use an instrumental variable fixed-effects model to control for time-varying heterogeneity and to deal with the potential endogeneity of the enrolment in the austerity programme. We find that the Italian austerity policy Piano di Rientro resulted in unintended negative effects on several dimensions of health, hurting and potentially jeopardising the health of citizens.

The COVID-19 pandemic and changes in eating habits of Brazilian adolescents

Introduction

The social distancing imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic influenced lifestyle and modified dietary patterns. Our objective was to evaluate the consumption of fruits and vegetables (FV), and ultra-processed foods (UPF), before and after the COVID-19 pandemic, as well as to identify the sociodemographic factors associated.

Methods

This study used data from the "Convid Adolescents", a survey on health behaviors that were collected through an online questionnaire self-completed by 9.470 adolescents between 12 and 17 years of age during the pandemic in Brazil in 2020. Individuals were invited to participate through a chain-sampling procedure called "virtual snowballing". Information about FV, and UPF consumption before and during the pandemic period were reported. The independent variables used were sex, age group, race/color of skin, kind of school, education level of the mother, region of Brazil, financial difficulties during the pandemic, food insecurity, and social restrictions. Logistic regression models were used.

Results

There was a reduction in the low consumption of FV (83.5% to 80.3%) and there was no significant difference in the high consumption of UPF (38.9% to 38.1%) before and during the pandemic. The incidence of low consumption of FV and high consumption of UPF during the pandemic was 20% and 13.8%, respectively. Girls, private school adolescents, who reported having food insecurity and financial difficulties during the pandemic were the most affected subgroups.

Conclusions

Despite little change in the prevalence of FV and UPF consumption before and during the pandemic, the incidence of high consumption of UPF and low FV consumption was high, and it identified in specific population subgroups.

Consumption of antidepressants and economic austerity in Brazil

OBJECTIVE

To describe consumption of antidepressants in Brazil through dispensing data from pharmacy retail outlets, in between 2011 and 2017, and explore the relationship between consumption patterns and changing economic context during this period.

METHODS

A time-series analysis of dispensing data from pharmacy retail outlets from the Brazilian Controlled Products Management System was carried out considering ten commonly used antidepressants. DDDs/1000 inhabitants/year for each drug was calculated for each quarter and time-series graphs were constructed to analyze the volumes of drugs purchased. Trends were analyzed using Prais-Winsten regression. The relationship between economic context and consumption was assessed using the following indicators: annual percent change in Gross Domestic Product (GDP), public debt (% of GDP), and annual net savings (in millions of Brazilian reais -BRL-).

RESULTS

overall consumption of antidepressants from pharmacy retail outlets increased over the study period despite a sharp fall of -3,55% in annual percent change in GDP, negative net annual savings of -53.568 BRL, and an increase in public debt exceeding 32% of the GDP during the economic crisis of 2015.

CONCLUSION

Consumption of antidepressants from pharmacy retail outlets increased even within a context of economic crisis, which may be a reflection of the disease burden in Brazil. Health budget cuts due to the economic crisis may be directing users to out-of-pocket expenses, deepening social inequalities. Segmented trend analysis is a workable approach for developing hypotheses about the possible influence of the economic context on medication consumption patterns.

The Use of Fluorides in Public Health: 65 Years of History and Challenges from Brazil

Untreated dental caries is the most common disease globally and fluoride use at the population level is crucial for its control. To investigate the economic and political conditions under which the trajectory of population-based fluoride use has occurred is key for a more comprehensive view on its current and future challenges. The objective was to give a brief history and summarize the information on the use of fluorides at the population level in Brazil from 1952 to 2017 and to point to current and future challenges. A critical overview was undertaken based on country-level analyses comprising political and economic conditions. The analytical approach adopted a set of premises applicable to the study of capitalist democracies. Fluoride methods of systemic and topic use began to be employed in Brazilian public health programs in the 1950s and in a combined way from 1974. Differences in political and economic contexts were highlighted for four periods: the first interventions from 1952 to 1974, when the fluoridated water law was approved; the expansion after 1974 until 1988, when a new constitution was enacted; the following time until 2010; and the final period. From the 1980s to 2008, water fluoridation coverage increased progressively, consolidating as a major strategy of systemic use in spite of inequalities among territories. Activities aimed to promote access to topical fluoride use increased and maintained stability until 2014, when they dropped sharply. Regulation of fluoride dentifrice's quality remained insufficient. It was hypothesized that the strengthening of conservative liberalism and the increase in fiscal austerity observed in recent years might produce serious constraints on public investment and limit access to fluorides. To reduce inequities and promote benefits for all, including the most vulnerable groups, policies based on egalitarian and social justice theoretical perspectives are needed more than ever.

Access to governmental programs/benefits and food insecurity in urban and rural areas of Northeast Brazil

This paper analyzes food insecurity (FI) in urban and rural areas of the Northeast region of Brazil associated with certain social determinants and access to governmental benefits/programs. Data about FI from the National Household Budget Survey (2017-2018) were analyzed, including socio-economic variables and access to government benefits/programs of supplemental income (Bolsa Família, Ongoing transfer benefits, Food voucher and Food basket). Multinomial logistic regression models were performed to assess the relationship between FI and access to government programs/benefits. Half of the families in the Northeast were classified as being subject to FI, the prevalence and severity being higher in rural households. The composition of the family, with at least one retired individual, significantly reduced the probability of being FI at all levels of severity. Access to the Food basket (in cash) benefit and Bolsa Família was associated with being a factor of protection against severe FI in rural areas, while in urban areas the food voucher benefit was the main factor of protection. Income transfer programs and access to social benefits contribute to combatting FI, highlighting the importance of maintaining and scaling-up these initiatives for vulnerable populations.

Inequalities in health care and access to health services among adults with self-reported arterial hypertension: Brazilian National Health Survey

This study compared indicators of care and access to health services by adults who self-reported hypertension in 2013 and 2019, analyzing those indicators according to gender, age group, schooling level, and race/color. This is an analytic study with data from the Brazilian National Health Survey (PNS), conducted in 2013 and 2019 in Brazil. The indicators to care and access to health services by individuals with arterial hypertension in both surveys were compared. For 2019, those indicators were analyzed according to sociodemographic characteristics. This study estimated the proportions, prevalence ratio (PR), and their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI). In total, 60,202 individuals were evaluated in 2013 and 88,531 in 2019, of these 24.4% reported arterial hypertension in 2013 and 23.9% in 2019. Women received more medical care for hypertension within the last year (PR = 1.07; 95%CI: 1.04; 1.11), had the last physician appointment at an basic health unit (PR = 1.11; 95%CI: 1.05; 1.17) than men. About race/color, black people had more hospitalization for hypertension or some complication (PR = 1.2; 95%CI: 1.05; 1.38) and intense or very intense degree of limitation in performing daily activities (PR = 1.37; 95%CI: 1.06; 1.76). In 2019, inequalities were evidenced and worse indicators were observed for males, black, with low education and young age. Therefore, investments in the Brazilian Unified National Health System, as well as public policies and strategic actions are essential to reduce inequalities, promote health care.

Health services utilization in the Brazilian Amazon: panel of two cross-sectional studies

OBJECTIVE

To investigate the use of health services among adults living in Manaus, Amazonas.

METHODS

This was a panel of two cross-sectional studies conducted in Manaus in 2015 and 2019. Individuals aged ≥ 18 years were selected by probabilistic sampling and interviewed at home. The study outcomes were doctor visits and hospitalizations in the previous 12 months, and unmet surgical needs. Variations between 2015 and 2019 were tested using chi-squared goodness-of-fit test. Poisson regression with robust variance was employed to calculate the prevalence ratios (PR) of the outcomes with 95% confidence intervals (95%CI).

RESULTS

The surveys included 5,800 participants in total. Visits to the doctor decreased from 2015 (78.7%) to 2019 (76.3%; p < 0.001), hospital admissions increased from 2015 (7.9%) to 2019 (11.5%; p < 0.001), and unmet surgical needs decreased in the period (15.9% to 12.1%; p < 0.001). These variations were particularly observed in vulnerable individuals – sicker; poorer; non-whites; and those belonging to lower social classes, with less access to education, formal jobs, and health insurance (p < 0.05). Doctor visits were higher in people with fair health status (PR = 1.09; 95%CI 1.06–1.12), health insurance (PR = 1.13; 95%CI 1.09–1.17), and chronic diseases (p < 0.001) but lower in men (PR = 0.87; 95%CI 0.84–0.90) and informal workers (PR = 0.89; 95%CI 0.84–0.94). Hospitalizations were higher in people with worse health statuses (p < 0.001), without partners (PR = 1.27; 95%CI 1.05–1.53), and with multimorbidity (PR = 1.68; 95%CI 1.33–2.12) but lower in men (PR = 0.55; 95%CI 0.44–0.68), older adults (p < 0.001), informal workers (PR = 0.67; 95%CI 0.51–0.89), and unemployed (PR = 0.72; 95%CI 0.53–0.97). Unmet surgical needs were higher in older adults (p < 0.001), middle-class people (PR = 1.24; 95%CI 1.01–1.55), worse health statuses (p < 0.001), and chronic diseases (p < 0.001) but lower in men (PR = 0.76; 95%CI 0.65–0.86).

CONCLUSIONS

From 2015 to 2019, less people visited the doctor, more were admitted to hospitals, and less were in need of surgery or aware of that need, potentially indicating poorer access to health services.

Burden of disease attributable to Risk Factors in Brazil: an analysis of national and subnational estimates from the 2019 Global Burden of Disease study

INTRODUCTION:

Monitoring trends in risk factors (RFs) and the burden of diseases attributable to exposure to RFs is an important measure to identify public health advances and current inadequate efforts. Objective: Analyze the global burden of disease attributable to exposure RFs in Brazil, and its changes from 1990 to 2019, according to the sex and age group.

METHODS:

This study used data from the Global Burden of Disease study. The Summary Exposure Value, which represents weighted prevalence by risk, was used to estimate exposure to RFs. The mortality and DALYs (Disability Adjusted Life Years) measurements were used to estimate the burden of diseases. For comparisons by year and between Brazilian states, age-standardized rates were used.

RESULTS:

Arterial hypertension was the factor responsible for most deaths in both sexes. For DALYs, the most important RF was the high body mass index (BMI) for women and alcohol consumption for men. Smoking had a substantial reduction in the attributable burden of deaths in the period. An important reduction was identified in the exposure to RFs related to socioeconomic development, such as unsafe water, lack of sanitation, and child malnutrition. Metabolic RFs, such as high BMI, hypertension, and alcohol consumption showed an increase in the attributable burden.

CONCLUSIONS:

Our findings point to an increase in metabolic RFs, which are the main RFs for mortality and DALYs. These results can help to consolidate and strengthen public policies that promote healthy lifestyles, thus reducing disease and death.

Access to governmental programs/benefits and food insecurity in urban and rural areas of Northeast Brazil

Abstract This paper analyzes food insecurity (FI) in urban and rural areas of the Northeast region of Brazil associated with certain social determinants and access to governmental benefits/programs. Data about FI from the National Household Budget Survey (2017-2018) were analyzed, including socio-economic variables and access to government benefits/programs of supplemental income (Bolsa Família, Ongoing transfer benefits, Food voucher and Food basket). Multinomial logistic regression models were performed to assess the relationship between FI and access to government programs/benefits. Half of the families in the Northeast were classified as being subject to FI, the prevalence and severity being higher in rural households. The composition of the family, with at least one retired individual, significantly reduced the probability of being FI at all levels of severity. Access to the Food basket (in cash) benefit and Bolsa Família was associated with being a factor of protection against severe FI in rural areas, while in urban areas the food voucher benefit was the main factor of protection. Income transfer programs and access to social benefits contribute to combatting FI, highlighting the importance of maintaining and scaling-up these initiatives for vulnerable populations.

Analysis of demand and access to services in the last two weeks previous to the National Health Survey 2013 and 2019

OBJECTIVE

Compare the demand and use of health services between 2013 and 2019, and analyze the associated sociodemographic and health variables in 2019.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study with data from the National Health Survey (PNS) 2013 and 2019. The prevalence and 95% confidence intervals (95% CI) for the demand and use of health services were estimated. In 2019, the differences in the indicators were analyzed according to sociodemographic variables and the crude and adjusted by sex and age prevalence ratios (RP) were estimated.

RESULTS

There was an increase of 22% in the demand for health care in the last two weeks, going from 15.3% (95%CI 15.0-15.7) in 2013 to 18.6% (95%CI 18.3-19.0) in 2019. There was a reduction in use in the last two weeks, from 97% (95%CI 96.6-97.4) in 2013 to 86.1% (95%CI 85.4-86.8) in 2019, which was observed for most Federation Units. In 2019, the demand for care was greater among women, the elderly, those with high schooling, individuals with health insurance and poor self-rated health. They obtained greater access to health services in the fifteen days prior to the survey: men, children or adolescents up to 17 years of age, people with health insurance and poor health self-assessment.

CONCLUSION

The demand for health services has grown and reduced access in the last 15 days between 2013 and 2019. These differences may have been exacerbated by the austerity measures implemented in the country.

Factors associated with cardiovascular disease in the Brazilian adult population: National Health Survey, 2019

OBJECTIVE

to estimate the prevalence and investigate the sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle factors associated with the self-reported diagnosis of Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) in the adult Brazilian population.

METHODS

Data from the National Health Survey (PNS 2019) were analyzed. The presence of CVD was self-reported through the question: "Has any doctor ever given you a diagnosis of heart disease?". Sociodemographic factors, health conditions, and lifestyle were evaluated. For data analysis, Poisson Regression with robust variance was used.

RESULTS

5.3% (95%CI 5.04-5.57) of Brazilian adults reported CVD, of which, 29.08% (95%CI 27.04-31.21) underwent coronary artery bypass surgery or angioplasty and 8.26% (95%CI 7.09-9.6) reported severe limitation in usual activities due to CVD. The factors associated with CVD were advanced age; being male; white race/color; complete middle school and incomplete high school education; have health insurance; self-assessing health as regular or bad/very bad; self-reported hypertension, high cholesterol, and diabetes; being a former smoker; consuming fruits and vegetables as recommended; not consuming alcohol in excess; and not practicing leisure-time physical activity.

CONCLUSIONS

CVD is associated with sociodemographic, health, and lifestyle factors. It is important to support public policies, programs, and goals for the reduction of cardiovascular diseases in Brazil, especially in the most vulnerable groups.

Tobacco use, cessation, secondhand smoke and exposure to media about tobacco in Brazil: results of the National Health Survey 2013 and 2019

OBJECTIVE

To compare indicators of tobacco use, secondhand smoke, cessation and exposure to pro- and anti-tobacco media in 2013 and 2019, and to describe these indicators according to sociodemographic variables in 2019.

METHODS

Cross-sectional study with data from the National Health Survey. The indicators of use, secondhand smoke, cessation and exposure to tobacco-related media were evaluated. Prevalence and confidence intervals (95%CI) were estimated for the total population in 2013 and 2019 and according to sociodemographic variables for 2019. Poisson regression with robust variance was used to assess differences in prevalence.

RESULTS

There was an improvement in most of the indicators studied: an increase in ex-smokers, a reduction in secondhand smoke and attempts to quit smoking. All pro- and anti-tobacco media exposure indicators declined. When considering the prevalence according to sociodemographic characteristics in 2019, 43.8% (95%CI 41.6-46.0) of men tried to quit smoking, and 50.8% (95%CI 48.5-53.2) of women. Secondhand smoke at home was higher among women (10.2%; 95%CI 9.7-10.8). Among those who thought about quitting smoking because of warnings, the proportion was higher among women (48.0%; 95%CI 45.3-50.6). Tobacco use was higher among men (43.8%; 95%CI 41.6-46.0), in the population aged 40 to 59 years (14.9%; 95%CI 14.2-15.6), with a lower level of education (17.6%; 95%CI 16.8-18.4).

CONCLUSION

The study showed improvement in tobacco-related indicators between the years studied. It is noteworthy that this advance was smaller in relation to the other periods previously analyzed, and therefore, greater investments in public policies to combat and control smoking in Brazil are necessary.

Systems thinking in COVID-19 recovery is urgently needed to deliver sustainable development for women and girls

In low-income and middle-income countries, such as those in sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, the COVID-19 pandemic has had substantial implications for women's wellbeing. Policy responses to the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted the gendered aspect of pandemics; however, addressing the gendered implications of the COVID-19 pandemic comprehensively and effectively requires a planetary health perspective that embraces systems thinking to inequalities. This Viewpoint is based on collective reflections from research done by the authors on COVID-19 responses by international and regional organisations, and national governments, in Latin America and sub-Saharan Africa between June, 2020, and June, 2021. A range of international and regional actors have made important policy recommendations to address the gendered implications of the COVID-19 pandemic on women's health and wellbeing since the start of the pandemic. However, national-level policy responses to the COVID-19 pandemic have been partial and inconsistent with regards to gender in both sub-Saharan Africa and Latin America, largely failing to recognise the multiple drivers of gendered health inequalities. This Viewpoint proposes that addressing the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on women in low-income and middle-income countries should adopt a systems thinking approach and be informed by the question of who is affected as opposed to who is infected. In adopting the systems thinking approach, responses will be more able to recognise and address the direct gendered effects of the pandemic and those that emerge indirectly through a combination of long-standing structural inequalities and gendered responses to the pandemic.

Trends in the prevalence of systemic arterial hypertension and health care service use in Brazil over a decade (2008-2019)

The global burden and the prevalence of systemic arterial hypertension (SAH) have increased over the last two decades, especially in low- and middle-income countries, and are a concern to health authorities. This study analyzed the prevalence of SAH reported by Brazilian adults in 2008, 2013, and 2019, and individual disease control in 2013 and 2019. Data from the National Household Sample Survey (2008) and National Health Survey (2013-2019) were employed. We calculated the disease's prevalence ratios using Poisson regression, adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics. Regarding health care and PHC organization indicators, we calculated proportions by gender, age group, ethnicity, and region. The results reveal persistent regional inequalities, with lower prevalence in the North and Northeast and higher prevalence in the Southeast and South. While the health care access and use indicators are positive, reflecting PHC improvements in recent years, we highlight the importance of adopting multifaceted SAH prevention and control strategies in the country.

Health and household surveys in Brazil and England: The National Health Survey and the Health Survey for England

This paper aims to analyze the characteristics of national health surveys conducted in Brazil and England by their respective Statistics institutes. For Brazil, the National Health Survey (PNS) was considered, and the Health Survey for England (HSE) for England. To this end, we show a preliminary overview of the different population profiles of the two countries. Then, a brief historical background is presented, including the common themes that are addressed in the PNS and HSE that favor comparative analyses. Finally, we compared, for example, the inequalities in access to and use of Brazilian and English health services. The results show several possibilities for comparative analysis on topics such as health perception, tobacco use, alcohol consumption, diabetes, and hypertension. However, the need to consider the specificities of the population profile of each country and the methodological characteristics of the surveys is emphasized.

Epidemiological characteristics and temporal trends of new leprosy cases in Brazil: 2006 to 2017

Our study aims to describe trends in new case detection rate (NCDR) of leprosy in Brazil from 2006 to 2017 overall and in subgroups, and to analyze the evolution of clinical and treatment characteristics of patients, with emphasis on cases diagnosed with grade 2 physical disabilities. We conducted a descriptive study to analyze new cases of leprosy registered in the Brazilian Information System for Notificable Diseases (SINAN), from 2006-2017. We calculated the leprosy NCDR per 100,000 inhabitants (overall and for individuals aged < 15 and ≥ 15 years) by sex, age, race/ethnicity, urban/rural areas, and Brazilian regions, and estimated the trends using the Mann-Kendall non-parametric test. We analyzed the distributions of cases according to relevant clinical characteristics over time. In Brazil, there was a sharp decrease in the overall NCDR from 23.4/100,000 in 2006 to 10.3/100,000 in 2017; among children < 15 years, from 6.94 to 3.20/100,000. The decline was consistent in all Brazilian regions and race/ethnicity categories. By 2017, 70.2% of the cases were multibacillary, 30.5% had grade 1 (G1D) or 2 (G2D) physical disabilities at diagnosis and 42.8% were not evaluated at treatment completion/discharge; cases with G2D at diagnosis were mostly detected in urban areas (80%) and 5% of cases died during the treatment (leprosy or other causes). Although the frequency of leprosy NCDR decreased in Brazil from 2006 to 2017 across all evaluated population groups, the large number of cases with multibacillary leprosy, physical disabilities or without adequate evaluation, and among children suggest the need to reinforce timely diagnosis and treatment to control leprosy in Brazil.

Convergence in alcohol abuse in Brazilian capitals between genders, 2006 to 2019: what population surveys show

OBJECTIVE

To analyze the temporal trend of the prevalence of alcohol abuse among adults in Brazilian capitals, between 2006 and 2019.

METHODS

Time series study, based on data from the Surveillance System for Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Diseases by Telephone Survey (Vigitel), between 2006 and 2019. The population consisted of adults (≥ 18 years old) with landline telephone residing in Brazilian capitals. The trend analysis was performed by linear regression.

RESULTS

Between 2006 and 2019 there was a significant increase (p = 0.03) in the abusive consumption of alcoholic beverages in the total adult population, from 15.6 to 18.8%. Among men, there was a stability trend (p = 0.96), and among women, there was an increase from 7.7 to 13.3% (p < 0.001; β = 0.295). In the male gender stratified by capitals, from 2006 to 2019 there was a reduction in Belém, Fortaleza, João Pessoa, Macapá, Manaus, Natal, Recife, São Luis, and Teresina. On the other hand, there was growth in the Federal District. Among women, the trend was upward in: Aracaju, Belo Horizonte, Cuiabá, Curitiba, Florianópolis, Goiânia, Palmas, Porto Alegre, Rio de Janeiro, Salvador, São Paulo, Vitória, and the Federal District.

CONCLUSION

The results indicate that more adult women are currently drinking in excess compared to previous years, suggesting an increased risk of alcohol-related harm in this portion of the population in Brazilian capitals, bringing about a convergence effect with the prevalence among men and women.

Monitoring and projection of targets for risk and protection factors for coping with noncommunicable diseases in Brazilian capitals

This study aimed to monitor the trends and projections of targets of risk and protection factors for coping with noncommunicable diseases in Brazilian capitals and verify whether the economic crisis and austerity policies have interfered with these targets' behavior. This is a time-series study with data from the Surveillance System for Risk and Protective Factors for Chronic Diseases by Telephone Survey. We analyzed the trends in the prevalence of tobacco use, obesity, physical activity, consumption of fruits and vegetables, and alcohol abuse, and their projections until 2025. The Prais-Winsten regression was employed. We adopted the Interrupted Time-Series, considering the 2006-2014 and 2015-2019 periods. A reduction in tobacco use, increase in obesity, consumption of fruits and vegetables, physical activity, and alcohol use was observed between 2006 and 2014. Most indicators have shown worse performance since 2015. Projections foresee that targets for curbing obesity and alcohol abuse will not be achieved. Some changes were identified in the indicators profiles, reinforcing the importance of the continuous monitoring and sustainability of actions, policies, and programs to promote health and control these diseases and their risk factors.

Equality and poverty: views from managers and professionals from public services and household heads in the Belo Horizonte Metropolitan Area, Brazil

BACKGROUND

Tackling poverty requires reconsideration of quantitative factors related to "who" is poor and by "how much" and qualitative factors addressing "what poverty means in these individuals' lives". Greater understanding is required concerning the types of access actually used by families in poverty in attempts to meet their basic needs. Poverty must be addressed based on the question: "Inequality of what?" It is in reflecting on the realities of such groups when their basic needs are not met that public policies can be improved and implemented with legitimate priorities.

OBJECTIVE

Describe coverage and access to public health, education and social assistance services and the related effects on the quality of life of families in extreme poverty.

METHODS

An exploratory mixed methods study was conducted applying Amartya Sen's "Basic Capability Equality" framework, with: 1) 27 interviews with managers and professionals from public services serving territories with extreme poverty; 2) Survey with a systematic proportionate stratified sample of 336 heads of households in extreme poverty from a total 2605 families. The resulting data was analyzed with thematic content analysis and descriptive statistics, respectively.

RESULTS

The managers and professionals described the lives of families in extreme poverty with phrases such as, "These people suffer. Sadness weighs on their lives!" and "Depression is the most common illness". Their precarious circumstances and inadequate access were cited as causes. Quality of life was considered bad or very bad by 41.4% of heads of households. A total income of less than one-third of the minimum wage was received by 56.9% of the sample. One or more people were unemployed in the family in 55.8% of cases. For 53.3% of heads of households, public services "did not meet any or few of their needs". The main social determinants of health were described as: alcohol and drugs (68.8%); lack of good health care (60.7%); and absence of income/work (37.5%). The following were identified as solutions to improve their quality of life: (1) health (40.5%); (2) education (37.8%); and (3) employment (44.6%).

CONCLUSIONS

The social determinants of poverty and health must be addressed jointly through intersectoral public policies and egalitarian mechanisms that promote investment in social protection.