Sexual behavior and self-declaration of sexual orientation among people 18-64 years in Brazil: results from the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices survey, 2013 and the National Health Survey, 2019.

BACKGROUND: Population surveys involving the monitoring of high-risk sexual behavior have been recognized as important public health tools to control the HIV epidemic and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). METHODS: Using data from the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practices survey (PCAP-2013) and from the National Health Survey (PNS-2019), indicators of sexual behavior were compared according to sociodemographic characteristics among individuals aged 18-64 years, including size (%) estimates of men who have sex with men (MSM) and women who have sex with women (WSW). Specifically, the PNS-2019 prevalence estimates of homosexual, bisexual, heterosexual males and females were compared with those from the PCAP-2013. To compare PCAP and PNS proportional distributions, the Pearson's chi-square test, adjusted by the Rao-Scott's correction, was applied. RESULTS: Size (%) estimates of MSM and WSW obtained by direct questions from the PCAP-2013, showed higher homosexuality prevalence estimates than those resulting from the PNS-2019 self-declared sexual orientation. Significant differences were found between the MSM proportions according to the PCAP-2013 (3.7%; 95% CI 3.1-4.4%) and to the PNS-2019 (2.2%; 95% CI 1.9-2.5), and between the WSW proportions (4.6%; 95% CI 4.0-5.4%) and (2.1%; 95% CI 1.8-2.4), respectively. Results from both surveys showed MSM and WSW prevalence estimates increase with educational level, decrease with age, and is larger among people who do not live with partner, live in urban areas and in state capitals. Regarding condom use at last sexual intercourse, no differences between the PCAP-2013 and the PNS-2019 estimates were found at the national level, but significant improvements were found for MSM, people aged 18-24 and 25-34 years, and individuals not living with a partner. CONCLUSIONS: The underestimation of MSM and WSW prevalence by self-declared sexual orientation suggests that sexual minorities face many difficulties related to disclosing their sexuality and reinforces the importance of developing public health interventions for changing population attitudes and promoting sexual orientation disclosure. Moreover, the low use of condoms in both surveys (PCAP-2013 and PNS-2019) carried out 6 years apart highlights the need of public policies to expand prevention strategies for HIV infection and other STIs.

Sex work stigma and non-disclosure to health care providers: data from a large RDS study among FSW in Brazil.

BACKGROUND: Stigma in health services may be detrimental to health seeking attitudes and practices. This study investigates non-disclosure of sex work to health care providers among female sex workers (FSW) in Brazil and its association with the utilization of health care services. METHODS: This study used cross-sectional respondent-driven sampling, carried out in 12 Brazilian cities to identify HIV risk behaviors among FSW. We first assessed statistical associations of sociodemographic, human right violations, health service access and utilization, and discrimination variables with non-disclosure of FSW status to health care providers as outcome. Secondly, we investigated the association of non-disclosure of FSW status with selected preventive health care outcomes: HIV testing, PAP smear exam, and post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP). Adjusted odds ratio with 95% confidence intervals were calculated by multivariable logistic regressions. RESULTS: Among 4245 recruited FSW, a high percentage received free condoms (82%) but only 24.4% were counseled on STI. Most FSW used non-specialized public healthcare routinely (62.6%), but only 51.5% had a Pap smear exam in the last two years and less than 40% were tested for HIV in the last 12 months. Among FSW who engaged in risky behavior (49.6%), only 8.3% used PEP. Regarding human rights violations, approximately 15% were required to give part of their earnings to owners of workplace establishments, 38% started sex work under 18 years old and 6% were required to periodically present their HIV test results. 21.3% reported having faced discrimination in health services, and 24.3% always disclosed their FSW status. Multivariable logistic models indicated significant associations of non-disclosure on the four healthcare outcomes, with lower odds of using preventive health services among women who did not disclose their sex work status, even after controlling for age, educational level, NGO affiliation, and type of health care routinely used. CONCLUSIONS: Our results indicate that sex work stigmatization within health services may be one of the main barriers to STI control and HIV response among FSW. It is essential to combat stigmatization and discrimination against FSW in health services to guarantee the appropriate uptake of preventive services available in the public health system in Brazil.

HIV Testing among men in Curitiba, Brazil.

In 2015, a community-wide intervention was launched in the city of Curitiba to evaluate the uptake of multiple HIV testing. A three-stage cluster sampling of 4800 men aged 15-64 years was selected in Curitiba. Logistic regression models were used to establish driving factors of HIV testing over the past 12 months. In the total sample, 49.5% have tested for HIV once in lifetime and 18.7% in the last 12 months. Among MSM, the proportions were much higher: 75.9% and 47.8% respectively. In the multivariate analysis, a significantly higher likelihood of HIV testing was found for young men (15-24 years), men with better educational level, those with more than 6 casual partners, and MSM compared to heterosexual men. The results indicate that the intervention to increase HIV diagnosis has substantially expanded MSM access to HIV testing.

The habit of drinking and driving in Brazil: National Survey of Health 2013 and 2019.

OBJECTIVE: To assess factors associated with the habit of drinking and driving and estimating the variations in the prevalence of this behavior in 2013 and 2019, considering information from the two editions of the Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (PNS - National Survey of Health). METHODS: PNS is a nationwide cross-sectional home-based study. In 2013 and 2019, 60,202 and 85,854 individuals were interviewed, respectively. To assess the association between the indicator "drinking and driving" and the study variables, crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were estimated using logistic regression models. To compare the prevalence between the studied years, a Pearson's chi-squared test adjusted by the Rao-Scott correction (which considers the effect of the sampling plan) and converted into an F statistic, tested at a 5% significance level, was used. RESULTS: The prevalence of drinking and driving was higher among men in 2013 (27.4%; 95%CI 25.6-29.3%) and 2019 (20.5%; 95%CI 19.4-21.7%) than among women (11.9%; 95%CI 9.9-14.2% and 7.2%; 95%CI 6.7-9.0%, respectively). Inidviduals aged 30 to 39, who lived without a partner, in rural areas, and were motorcycle drivers had significantly higher estimates. Men with higher income had higher prevalence of drinking and driving. From 2013 to 2019, the act of drinking and driving significantly decreased. Regarding traffic accidents, ORs were significant (p < 0.01) in the studied years for both men and women. DISCUSSION: Results show the need to continue policies to monitor blood alcohol level and traffic education, with specific actions directed to rural areas and motorcycle drivers.

[Self-reported morbidities and lifestyles of agricultural and non-agricultural workers in Brazil: a comparative analysis between 2013 and 2019]. / Morbidades autorreferidas e estilos de vida em trabalhadores agrícolas e não agrícolas no Brasil: uma análise comparativa entre 2013 e 2019.

Differences in the profiles of illness and lifestyles among agricultural and non-agricultural workers were investigated using data from the National Health Survey (Brazilian acronym PNS) of 2013 and 2019. The prevalence and 95% CIs were calculated for the following variables: self-reported morbidities, poor self-rated health, limitations of usual activities, number of NCD, major or minor depression and lifestyles. The Poisson model was used to calculate crude and adjusted prevalence ratios, by gender and age. The sample weights and the conglomerate effect in 2013 and 2019 were considered in the analyses. A total of 33,215 non-agricultural workers and 3,797 agricultural workers were evaluated in 2013, whereas 47,849 non-agricultural workers and 4,751 agricultural workers were assessed in 2019. Agricultural workers are more susceptible to poor self-rated health, chronic back problems, excessive physical activity at work, smoking and lower consumption of vegetables and fruit. On the other hand, non-agricultural workers revealed a higher prevalence of asthma/bronchitis, depression and diabetes mellitus and greater consumption of candies and soft drinks. Differentiated NCD prevention and treatment actions for both groups of workers need to be prioritized.

Investigaram-se diferenças no padrão de adoecimento e estilos de vida entre trabalhadores agrícolas e não agrícolas em 2013 e 2019, com os dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (PNS). Calcularam-se as prevalências e seus IC de 95% para morbidades autorreferidas, autoavaliação de saúde (AAS) não boa, limitação das atividades habituais por DCNT, número de DCNT, depressão maior ou menor e estilos de vida. Utilizou-se o modelo de Poisson para cálculo das razões de prevalências brutas e ajustadas por sexo e idade. Consideraram-se as ponderações amostrais e o efeito do conglomerado em 2013 e 2019. Avaliaram-se 33.215 trabalhadores não agrícolas e 3.796 agrícolas em 2013. Em 2019, foram 47.849 trabalhadores não agrícolas e 4.751 agrícolas. Os trabalhadores agrícolas estão mais propensos a AAS não boa, problemas crônicos na coluna, excesso de atividade física no trabalho, tabagismo e menor consumo de frutas, legumes e verduras (FLV). Enquanto os trabalhadores não agrícolas apresentaram maiores prevalências de asma/bronquite, depressão, diabetes, e consumo de doces e refrigerantes. Ações diferenciadas de prevenção e manejo de DCNT para os dois grupos de trabalhadores devem ser priorizadas.

Papanicolaou test in Brazil: analysis of the National Health Survey of 2013 and 2019.

OBJECTIVES: To compare the coverage of cervical cancer screening in Brazil in 2013 and 2019, investigating the factors associated with having the test performed and the reasons given for not doing it. Additionally, a comparison is made concerning the time taken to receive the test result in SUS (Sistema Único de Saúde) and in the private health services. METHODS: Using data from the National Health Survey (Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde - PNS), prevalence rates and corresponding confidence intervals were calculated to determine the frequency of recent cervical cancer screenings among women aged between 25 and 64 years old in Brazil, for both 2013 and 2019. Poisson regression models were employed to compare the prevalence of the outcome according to sociodemographic characteristics. The reasons for not having the test and the time between performing and receiving the result were also analyzed. RESULTS: The findings revealed an increase in the coverage of preventive cervical cancer exams in Brazil from 78.7% in 2013 to 81.3% in 2019. Additionally, there was a decline in the proportion of women who had never undergone the exam, from 9.7% to 6.1%. Prevalence of test uptake was higher among white women, those with higher levels of education and income, and those residing in the South and Southeast regions of the country. The most commonly cited reasons for not taking the test were the impression it was unnecessary (45% in both 2013 and 2019) and never having been asked to undergo the test (20.6% in 2013 and 14.8% in 2019). CONCLUSIONS: Despite the high coverage of screening achieved in the country, there is great inequality in access to the test, and a non-negligible number of women are at greater risk of dying from a preventable disease. Efforts must be made to structure an organized screening program that identifies and captures the most vulnerable women.

Assessment of the Accuracy, Usability and Acceptability of a Rapid Test for the Simultaneous Diagnosis of Syphilis and HIV Infection in a Real-Life Scenario in the Amazon Region, Brazil.

We field-assessed the accuracy, acceptability, and feasibility of the SD BIOLINE HIV/Syphilis Duo rapid diagnostic test in three groups: pregnant women, female sex workers (FSW), and men who have sex with men (MSM). Venous blood samples collected in the field were compared with the respective gold standard methods: SD BIOLINE HIV/Syphilis Duo Treponemal Test versus FTA-abs (Wama brand) treponemal laboratory test for syphilis, and SD BIOLINE HIV/Syphilis Duo Test versus the fourth generation Genscreen Ultra HIV Ag-Ag (Bio-Rad brand) laboratory test for HIV. From a total of 529 participants, 397 (75.1%) were pregnant women, 76 (14.3%) FSW and 56 (10.6%) MSM. Sensitivity and specificity parameters of HIV were 100.0% (95% CI: 82.35-100.0%) and 100.0% (95% CI: 99.28-100.0%), respectively. Sensitivity and specificity parameters found for TP antibody detection were 95.00% (95% CI: 87.69-98.62%) and 100.0% (95% CI: 98.18-100.0%), respectively. The SD BIOLINE HIV/Syphilis Duo Test showed high acceptability among participants (85.87%) and health professionals (85.51%), as well as easy usability by professionals (91.06%). The usability of the SD BIOLINE HIV/Syphilis Duo Test kit would not be a barrier to accessing rapid testing, if the product were incorporated into the list of health service supplies.

Population Prevalence of Trachoma in Nine Rural Non-Indigenous Evaluation Units of Brazil.

PURPOSE: To assess the contemporary prevalence of trachoma in Brazil's non-indigenous population, surveys of those thought to be at greatest risk of disease were conducted. METHODS: Rural census tracts of non-indigenous population from nine mesoregions were selected to compose the survey evaluation units (EUs) by considering previously endemic municipalities at greatest risk of trachoma. In each of the nine EUs, we conducted a population-based prevalence survey. Every resident of selected households aged ≥1 year was examined for trachomatous inflammation - follicular (TF) and trachomatous trichiasis (TT). Additionally, data were collected on household-level access to water, sanitation, hygiene (WASH) and education. RESULTS: A total of 27,962 individuals were examined across nine EUs. The age-adjusted TF prevalence in 1-9-year-olds was <5% in each EU. The age- and gender-adjusted prevalence of TT unknown to the health system in ≥15-year-olds was <0.2% in eight EUs; in one EU, it was 0.22%. The median number of households surveyed per EU with access to an improved drinking water source within a 30-minute roundtrip of the house was 66%. School attendance was >99% of surveyed children. CONCLUSIONS: The prevalence of TF was well below the target for elimination as a public health problem in all EUs. Because EUs surveyed were selected to represent the highest-risk non-indigenous areas of the country, TF prevalence is unlikely to be ≥5% in non-indigenous populations elsewhere. In one EU, the prevalence of TT was above the target threshold for elimination. Further investigation and possibly improvement in TT surgical provision are required in that EU.

Self-report of medical diagnosis of chronic kidney disease: prevalence and characteristics in the Brazilian adult population, National Health Survey 2013 and 2019. / Autorrelato de diagnóstico médico de doença renal crônica: prevalência e características na população adulta brasileira, Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde 2013 e 2019.

OBJECTIVE: To estimate the prevalence of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in the adult Brazilian population and to describe its characteristics, according to the National Health Survey (PNS) 2013-2019. METHODS: Descriptive cross-sectional study, with adults participating in the PNS, based on self-reported medical diagnosis of CKD. Prevalence of CKD and their respective 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) were estimated for Brazil. RESULTS: In 2013, 60,202 individuals were analyzed, and in 2019, 85,854. The prevalence of self-reported diagnosis of CKD in both editions was 1.4% and increased with increasing age. In 2019, the prevalence of self-reported CKD was 3.3% (95%CI 2.9;3.7) in hypertensive individuals, 4.1% (95%CI 3.4;5.0) among diabetics, and 3.3% (95%CI 2.8;3.9) in those reporting hypercholesterolemia. CONCLUSION: The prevalence of CKD in Brazil remained stable in the period but reinforces the need for expansion of diagnosis and strengthening of primary care in the Brazilian National Health System (SUS).

Knowledge and risk practices related to HIV infection in the general population, young men, and MSM in three Brazilian cities in 2019. / Conhecimento e práticas de risco à infecção pelo HIV na população geral, homens jovens e HSH em três municípios brasileiros em 2019.

The study aimed to describe knowledge and risk practices related to HIV infection in three Brazilian cities in the general population, men 15 to 24 years of age living without a partner, and men that reported sex with other men (MSM) at least once in life. This was a cross-sectional household-based study with three-stage cluster sampling (census tracts, households, individuals) stratified by sex, age group (15-24; 25-34; 35-44; 45-59), and conjugal status in the individual selection. We estimated the proportions and 95% confidence intervals (95%CI) of indicators of knowledge, HIV testing, sexual behavior, and self-rated risk. We analyzed 5,764 individuals in Campo Grande, 3,745 in Curitiba, and 3,900 in Florianópolis. Low levels of knowledge were found for preventive methods, especially PrEP. Unprotected sex practices were frequent in the three municipalities. Lifetime HIV test rates were 57.2% (95%CI: 55.1-59.2) in Curitiba, 64.3% (95%CI: 62.7-66.0) in Campo Grande, and 65.9% (95%CI: 64.0-67.7) in Florianópolis. Among men 15-24 years of age, the proportions of stimulant drug use and unprotected sexual practices were higher than in the other age groups. Lifetime HIV test rates exceeded 80% in MSM. More than 30% of MSM were receptive partners in anal sex without condoms, and fewer than 5% assessed their risk as high. More effective communication strategies are needed on prevention of HIV infection, including increased knowledge that could motivate safer sexual practices.

O objetivo do estudo foi descrever o conhecimento e práticas de risco à infecção pelo HIV na amostra total de cada município, entre homens de 15 a 24 anos que vivem sem companheiro(a), e homens que fizeram sexo com homems (HSH) pelo menos uma vez na vida em três cidades brasileiras. Foi realizado estudo de corte transversal de base domiciliar com amostragem por conglomerados em três estágios (setores censitários, domicílios, indivíduos), com estratificação por sexo, faixa etária (15-24; 25-34; 35-44; 45-59) e vive com companheiro(a) na seleção do indivíduo. Estimaram-se proporções e intervalos de 95% de confiança (IC95%) de indicadores de conhecimento, testagem do HIV, comportamento sexual e autoavaliação do risco. Foram analisados 5.764 indivíduos em Campo Grande, 3.745 em Curitiba e 3.900 em Florianópolis. Baixo nível de conhecimento foi encontrado para os métodos de prevenção, sobretudo para profilaxia pré-exposição (PrEP). Práticas de sexo desprotegido foram frequentes nos três municípios. As proporções de teste de HIV na vida foram 57,2% (IC95%: 55,1-59,2) em Curitiba, 64,3% (IC95%: 62,7-66,0) em Campo Grande, e 65,9% (IC95%: 64,0-67,7) em Florianópolis. Entre homens de 15-24 anos, proporções de uso de drogas estimulantes e práticas sexuais desprotegidas foram mais altas que nos demais grupos etários. Entre os HSH, as proporções de teste de HIV na vida foram superiores a 80%. Mais de 30% foram parceiros receptivos no sexo anal sem uso de preservativo, e menos de 5% avaliam seu risco como alto. É preciso adotar estratégias de comunicação mais eficazes sobre a prevenção da infecção do HIV, incluindo a ampliação de conhecimentos que poderiam motivar práticas sexuais mais seguras.

El objetivo fue describir el conocimiento y prácticas de riesgo para la infección por el HIV en la muestra total de cada municipio, entre hombres de 15 a 24 años que viven sin compañero(a), y hombres que practicaron sexo con hombres (HSH) por lo menos una vez en la vida en tres ciudades brasileñas. Se trata de un estudio de corte transversal con base domiciliaria, con una muestra por conglomerados en tres fases (sectores censales, domicilios, individuos), con estratificación por sexo, franja de edad (15-24; 25-34; 35-44; 45-59) y vive con compañero(a) en la selección del individuo. Se estimaron las proporciones e intervalos de 95% de confianza (IC95%) de indicadores de conocimiento, testeo del VIH, comportamiento sexual y autoevaluación del riesgo. Se analizaron a 5.764 individuos en Campo Grande, 3.745 en Curitiba y 3.900 en Florianópolis. Se encontró un bajo nivel de conocimiento respecto a los métodos de prevención, sobre todo para PrEP. Fueron frecuentes las prácticas de sexo desprotegido en los tres municipios. Las proporciones de tests de VIH en la vida fueron 57,2% (IC95%: 55,1-59,2) en Curitiba, 64,3% (IC95%: 62,7-66,0) en Campo Grande, y 65,9% (IC95%: 64,0-67,7) en Florianópolis. Entre hombres de 15-24 años, las proporciones de uso de drogas estimulantes y prácticas sexuales desprotegidas fueron más altas que en los demás grupos de edad. Entre los HSH, las proporciones de test de VIH en la vida fueron superiores a 80%. Más de un 30% fueron parejas receptivas en el sexo anal, sin uso de preservativo, y menos de un 5% evalúan su riesgo como alto. Es necesario adoptar estrategias de comunicación más eficaces sobre la prevención de la infección contra el VIH, incluyendo la ampliación de conocimientos que podrían motivar prácticas sexuales más seguras.

HIV incidence estimates by sex and age group in the population aged 15 years or over, Brazil, 1986-2018.

INTRODUCTION: HIV incidence estimates are essential to monitor the progress of prevention and control interventions. METHODS: Data collected by Brazilian surveillance systems were used to derive HIV incidence estimates by age group (15-24; 25+) and sex from 1986 to 2018. This study used a back-calculation method based on the first CD4 count among treatment-naïve cases. Incidence estimates for the population aged 15 years or over were compared to Global Burden of Disease Study (GBD) estimates from 2000 to 2018. RESULTS: Among young men (15-24 years), HIV incidence increased from 6,400 (95% CI: 4,900-8,400), in 2000, to 12,800 (95% CI: 10,800-15,900), in 2015, reaching incidence rates higher than 70/100,000 inhabitants and an annual growth rate of 3.7%. Among young women, HIV incidence decreased from 5,000 (95% CI: 4,200-6,100) to 3,200 (95% CI: 3,000-3,700). Men aged ≥25 years and both female groups showed significant annual decreases in incidence rates from 2000 to 2018. In 2018, the estimated number of new infections was 48,500 (95% CI: 45300-57500), 34,800 (95% CI: 32800-41500) men, 13,600 (95% CI: 12,500-16,000) women. Improvements in the time from infection to diagnosis and in the proportion of cases receiving antiretroviral therapy immediately after diagnosis were found for all groups. Comparison with GBD estimates shows similar rates for men with overlapping confidence intervals. Among women, differences are higher mainly in more recent years. CONCLUSIONS: The results indicate that efforts to control the HIV epidemic are having an impact. However, there is an urgent need to address the vulnerability of young men.

Effect of chronic non-communicable diseases (CNCDs) on the sleep of Brazilians during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This study aimed to investigate the effect of Chronic Noncommunicable Diseases (CNCDs) on the onset or increase in sleep problems during the COVID-19 pandemic period. The role of the report of sadness or nervousness during the pandemic was also evaluated as a mediator of this association. Data from a behavior survey during COVID-19, conducted in Brazil with 45,161 people (18 years old or older), from April 24 to May 24, 2020, were used. The outcome variable was the onset or increase in sleep problems, and the exposure variable was the presence of CNCDs. The adjusted Odds Ratio of the association between CNCDs and sleep was estimated, and a mediation analysis was performed to test the effect of the report of sadness or nervousness on this association, using the Karlson Holm Breen method. The increase in sleep problems was reported by 44.9% of the population, and 33.9% reported at least one CNCD. The chance of sleep problems was higher among people with diabetes (1.34; 1.05-1.71), hypertension (1.26; 1.06-1.50), and with coronary heart diseases (1.36; 1.13-1.65) or respiratory diseases (1.42; 1.04-1.93). Compared to people without CNCDs, individuals with at least one CNCD had a 36% greater chance of impaired sleep (1.36; 1.19-1.55). The report of sadness or nervousness explained 45.1% of the association between CNCD and sleep. Our findings alert us to care for the emotional state and sleep of chronic patients during the waves of the COVID-19 pandemic, and indicate the need for sleep monitoring in this population.

Health vulnerabilities in female sex workers in Brazil, 2016.

Female sex workers (FSW) suffer stigma and discrimination that negatively impact their physical and mental health and affect access to health care services. This paper aims to describe selected health indicators among FSW in 12 Brazilian cities in 2016. Brazilian cross-sectional Biological Behavioral Surveillance Survey was conducted in 2016 among 4328 FSW recruited by respondent-driven sampling. The sample weighing was inversely proportional to participant's network sizes and the seeds were excluded from the analysis. Health indicators were estimated with 95% confidence interval and included indicators of health status, symptoms of depression, antenatal care, pap smear coverage, signs and symptoms of sexually transmitted infection, contraception and regular condom use, number of births and children alive per women, human immunodeficiency virus and syphilis testing, usual source of care, and perception of discrimination. Most participants self-rated their health as very good/good (65.8%) and 27.7% were positively screened for major depressive disorder episode on Patient Health Questionnaire-2. Antenatal coverage was 85.8% and 62.3% of FSW had access to pap smear exam in the past 3 years. A total of 67.0% of FSW were using some contraceptive method at the time of the study. Male condom was the most common method (37.1%), followed by oral pill (28.9%). A total of 22.5% FSW had never been tested for HIV and the main reasons were "not feeling at risk" (40.4%) and "being afraid or ashamed" (34.0%). The vast majority of FSW used Brazilian National Health System as their usual source of health care (90.2%). Approximately one-fifth of the participants felt discriminated against or were treated worse for being FSW (21.4%) and only 24.3% disclose their sex work status in health services. The vulnerability of FSW is expressed in all health indicators. Indicators of health status, antenatal care, pap smear coverage, and contraception were worse than in the Brazilian population, and point out to the importance of increase FSW's access to health care services. Also, stigma and discrimination emerged as an important barrier to FSW's health care in all dimensions and need to be struggled.

Comparison of sampling designs from the two editions of the Brazilian National Health Survey, 2013 and 2019.

Our objective is to describe the differences in the sampling plans of the two editions of the Brazilian National Health Survey (PNS 2013 and 2019) and to evaluate how the changes affected the coefficient of variation (CV) and the design effect (Deff) of some estimated indicators. Variables from different parts of the questionnaire were analyzed to cover proportions with different magnitudes. The prevalence of obesity was included in the analysis since anthropometry measurement in the 2019 survey was performed in a subsample. The value of the point estimate, CV, and the Deff were calculated for each indicator, considering the stratification of the primary sampling units, the weighting of the sampling units, and the clustering effect. The CV and the Deff were lower in the 2019 estimates for most indicators. Concerning the questionnaire indicators of all household members, the Deffs were high and reached values greater than 18 for having a health insurance plan. Regarding the indicators of the individual questionnaire, for the prevalence of obesity, the Deff ranged from 2.7 to 4.2, in 2013, and from 2.7 to 10.2, in 2019. The prevalence of hypertension and diabetes per Federative Unit had a higher CV and lower Deff. Expanding the sample size to meet the diverse health objectives and the high Deff are significant challenges for developing probabilistic household-based national survey. New probabilistic sampling strategies should be considered to reduce costs and clustering effects.

Mental health of Brazilian adolescents during the COVID-19 pandemic.

We aimed to assess the factors associated with frequent sadness and nervousness in Brazilian adolescents, during the Covid-19 pandemic, in 9470 adolescents (aged 12-17 years), interviewed from June 27 to September 17, 2020. Prevalences and prevalence ratios were estimated according to socio-demographic variables and factors related to family, school, friends, and health. Brazilian adolescents often felt sad (32.4%) and nervous (48.7%). Higher prevalences of these feelings were related to: being female; aged 15-17 year; from families with financial difficulties; having learned little or nothing with remote education; missing friends; having few friends; family disagreements; having regular/bad health before the pandemic; and worsened health and sleep during the pandemic. Higher prevalence of nervousness was also found in adolescents who worked before the pandemic and those who reported lack of concentration and not knowing if they had COVID-19. Sadness and nervousness in Brazilian adolescents is high and the need for action by the government, schools, health services, and parents to mitigate the impact of the pandemic on the physical and mental health of adolescents. Special attention must be paid to adolescents with previous health problems and those belonging to the most socially vulnerable population.

Health inequalities in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil: lower healthy life expectancy in socioeconomically disadvantaged areas.

OBJECTIVES: We investigated deprivation and inequalities in life expectancy and healthy life expectancy by location in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. METHODS: We conducted a health survey of 576 adults in 2006. Census tracts were stratified by income level and categorization as a slum. We determined health status by degree of functional limitation, according to the approach proposed by the World Health Organization. We calculated healthy life expectancies by Sullivan's method with abridged life table. RESULTS: We found the worst indicators in the slum stratum. The life expectancy at birth of men living in the richest parts of the city was 12.8 years longer than that of men living in deprived areas. For both men and women older than age 65 years, healthy life expectancy was more than twice as high in the richest sector as in the slum sector. CONCLUSIONS: Our analysis detailed the excess burden of poor health experienced by disadvantaged populations of Rio de Janeiro. Policy efforts are needed to reduce social inequalities in health in this city, especially among the elderly.

[Living and working conditions and access to health services for agricultural and non-agricultural workers, Brazil, 2013]. / Condições de vida, trabalho e acesso aos serviços de saúde em trabalhadores agrícolas e não agrícolas, Brasil, 2013.

In Brazil, the growth of agribusiness to the detriment of family agriculture occurred while concealing social, environmental and human health damages. The objective was to compare living and working conditions and access to health services between agricultural and non-agricultural workers. Data from the National Health Survey (PNS) on living and working conditions, sociodemographic, economic characteristics, and access to health services from a representative sample of the employed Brazilian population were adopted. Pearson's chi-square test was used, with a significance level of 0.05, taking the complex sampling design into consideration. Agricultural workers suffered from worse living conditions, lower purchasing power, greater exposure to solar radiation and chemical agents, and a higher frequency and severity of occupational accidents compared to non-agricultural workers. The agricultural population had greater coverage of the Family Health Service and sought medical care from the Unified Health System (SUS) to treat diseases, while the non-agricultural workers sought private medical care for preventive actions. The differences found between these workers imply different patterns of illness and define specific health needs.

No Brasil, o crescimento do agronegócio em detrimento da agricultura familiar ocorreu ocultando danos sociais, ambientais e à saúde humana. Objetivou-se comparar as condições de vida, de trabalho e o acesso aos serviços de saúde, entre trabalhadores agrícolas e não agrícolas. Utilizaram-se os dados da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde (PNS) sobre condições de vida e trabalho, características sociodemográficas, econômicas e de acesso aos serviços de saúde de uma amostra representativa da população ocupada brasileira. Empregou-se o teste qui-quadrado de Pearson, com nível de significância de 0,05, considerando-se o desenho complexo da amostragem. Os trabalhadores agrícolas apresentaram piores condições de vida, menor poder aquisitivo, maior exposição à radiação solar e agentes químicos e maior frequência e gravidade de acidentes de trabalho em comparação aos não agrícolas. A população agrícola teve maior cobertura da ESF, buscou atendimento médico no SUS para tratar doenças, enquanto a não agrícola, buscou atendimento médico privado para ações preventivas. As diferenças encontradas entre esses trabalhadores implicam em padrões de adoecimento distintos e definem necessidades de saúde específicas.

Prevalence and sociodemographic factors associated with heavy drinking in Brazil: cross-sectional analyses of the National Health Survey. / Prevalência e fatores sociodemográficos associados ao beber pesado no Brasil: análises transversais da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde.

OBJECTIVE: This article aims to characterize the heavy drinking behavior in the Brazilian population, using data from the two editions of the "National Health Survey" (PNS), 2013 and 2019. METHODS: The sample sizes in 2013 and 2019 were 60,202 and 88,943 individuals aged 18 years or older, respectively. The prevalence of the habit of heavy drinking (defined as 8 or more doses per week for women, and 15 or more doses for men) was estimated, and the confidence intervals were defined by sex, age group, schooling, skin color/race, marital status and household status (urban/rural). Poisson regression models were used to compare prevalence rates. RESULTS: 6.1% of Brazilians were heavy drinkers in 2013, and 7.3% in 2019. In the two editions of the PNS there was a gradient of reduction in heavy drinking throughout life, being the highest prevalence among young adults, men, with low schooling, single and living in the urban area. CONCLUSIONS: The high prevalence rates expose the need to consider the habit of heavy drinking as a risk factor for the health of the Brazilian population, and the urgency to adopt strategies to reduce it.

OBJETIVO: Este estudo teve o objetivo de caracterizar o hábito de beber pesado na população brasileira, utilizando os dados das duas edições da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde 2013 e 2019. MÉTODOS: O tamanho das amostras em 2013 e 2019 foi de 60.202 e 88.943 indivíduos de 18 anos ou mais, respectivamente. Foram estimadas as prevalências do hábito de beber pesado (definido por 8 ou mais doses por semana para as mulheres e 15 ou mais doses para os homens) e os intervalos de confiança por sexo, faixa etária, grau de escolaridade, cor da pele/raça, estado civil e situação de residência (urbana/rural). Foram usados modelos de regressão de Poisson para comparar as prevalências. RESULTADOS: 6,1% dos brasileiros tinham o hábito de beber pesado em 2013 e 7,3% em 2019. Nas duas edições da Pesquisa Nacional de Saúde, observou-se um gradiente de diminuição do beber pesado durante a vida, com as maiores prevalências entre os adultos jovens, entre os homens, com baixo nível de escolaridade, entre os solteiros e residentes da área urbana. CONCLUSÕES: As altas prevalências encontradas expõem a necessidade de considerar o hábito de beber pesado como um fator de risco à saúde da população brasileira e a urgência em adotar estratégias para a sua diminuição.

Sexual, reproductive health and health status of female sex workers in 12 Brazilian cities, 2016.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate differences in sexual, reproductive health and health status indicators of female sex workers in 12 Brazilian cities. METHODS: Cross-sectional study of biological and behavioral surveillance survey with a minimum sample of 350 female sex workers per city, recruited by respondent driven sampling, in 2016. Complex sample design was considered in the data analysis. Indicators and 95% confidence intervals related to sexual and reproductive health, and health status were described separately by city and for the total sample. RESULTS: The total sample consisted of 4,328 female sex workers. The coverage of Pap smear exam, human immunodeficiency virus and syphilis tests and antenatal care indicators varied by 20 percentages points or more. Pap smear exam coverage ranged from 53.4% in Recife to 73.0% in Porto Alegre. The highest percentage of female sex workers who had never been tested for human immunodeficiency virus and syphilis was in Fortaleza (36.8 and 63.8%, respectively). Antenatal coverage ranged from 61.1% in Salvador to 99.0% in Curitiba. In five cities, the proportion of female sex workers who disclosed their sex work status in health services was over 20.0%. CONCLUSION: The differences between the indicators in the 12 cities followed the Brazilian population profile, with more vulnerable sex workers in the North and Northeast regions. The results show that it is essential to consider the barriers to accessing health, such as stigma and discrimination, which restrict the addressing of female sex workers specific needs.

Increasing trends in obesity prevalence from 2013 to 2019 and associated factors in Brazil.

OBJECTIVE: To investigate the variation of anthropometric indicators from 2013 to 2019 and the factors associated with obesity in Brazil, using information from the National Health Survey. METHODS: Cross-sectional study with cluster sampling and simple random sampling in the three stages. Measurements of weight and height among participants in 2013 (n=59,592) and in 2019 (n=6,672) were used. Differences in obesity prevalence were tested by Student's t test for independent samples. To identify the sociodemographic factors and health problems associated with obesity, we used Poisson regression models with robust variance and crude and age-adjusted prevalence ratios to test the associations. RESULTS: From 2013 to 2019, prevalence of obesity increased significantly, from 20.8 to 25.9%. Among men, the greatest increases were found in the 40-59 age group (9.1%) and in the median income category (8.3%). Among women, the greatest rises were found among those with low education (8.7%) and non-white ones (6.0%). For both males and females, factors associated with obesity were age, to live with a partner, level of instruction directly associated among men, and inversely associated among women. In 2019, for males, the crude and adjusted prevalence ratios were significant for high cholesterol, high blood pressure and at least one chronic non-communicable disease and, for females, for poor self-rated health, high blood pressure, diabetes, and at least one chronic non-communicable. CONCLUSION: It is necessary to implement intersectoral policies to promote changes in eating habits and encourage the practice of physical activity, taking into account economic, social, cultural, and environmental aspects.