[Body image perception, socioeconomic characteristics, and lifestyle in women participating in ELSA-Brasil in Bahia, Brazil]. / Percepção de imagem corporal, características socioeconômicas e estilo de vida em mulheres participantes do ELSA-Brasil na Bahia, Brasil.

Body image distortion is an alteration in the perception of the body that can have repercussions on health. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of body image accuracy and distortion among women participating in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil) living in Bahia State, Brazil, and to investigate associations with socioeconomic characteristics, lifestyle, and gynecological care seeking. A total of 609 women aged 50 to 69 years participated in the study, who answered face-to-face questionnaires from 2012 to 2014. The Stunkard silhouette scale was used to investigate accurate or distorted perception for more or less weight. The relative risk ratio (RR) was calculated by multinomial logistic regression using Stata 13. Most participants have an accurate perception of their own bodies (53.7%). Among those with distorted perception, there is a tendency to distort towards less weight (38.1%). In the multinomial regression analysis, the variables race/skin color and education remained associated with the distortion towards underweight. The race/skin color variable was positively associated with the distortion towards underweight among Mixed-race women (RR = 1.89; 95%CI: 1.13-3.16) and black (RR = 2.10; 95%CI: 1.25-3.55), while the education variable among those with up to high school education (RR = 1.65; 95%CI: 1.18-2.33). There were no associations with the other variables or with distortion for more weight. The results contribute to explaining the relationships between body image perception and socioeconomic factors, revealing that women of different races/skin colors and varying educational levels are influenced in different ways by social discourses, impacting the perception of their body image.

Distorção da imagem corporal é uma alteração da percepção do corpo que pode repercutir na saúde. Este estudo visa estimar, entre mulheres participantes do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (ELSA-Brasil) residentes na Bahia, Brasil, a prevalência de acurácia e distorção da imagem corporal e investigar associações com características socioeconômicas, estilo de vida e procura de cuidados ginecológicos. Participaram 609 mulheres de 50-69 anos de idade que responderam, entre 2012-2014, questionários aplicados face a face. Foi utilizada a escala de silhuetas de Stunkard para investigar a percepção acurada ou distorcida para mais ou menos peso. A razão de risco relativo (RR) foi calculada por meio de regressão logística multinomial por meio do Stata 13. A maioria das participantes tem perspectiva acurada do próprio corpo (53,7%). Entre aquelas com percepção distorcida, há uma tendência à distorção para menos peso (38,1%). Na análise de regressão multinomial, permaneceram associadas à distorção para menos peso as variáveis raça/cor e escolaridade, sendo que a primeira foi positivamente associada à distorção para menos peso entre as pardas (RR = 1,89; IC95%: 1,13-3,16) e pretas (RR = 2,10; IC95%: 1,25-3,55), enquanto a segunda entre aquelas com escolaridade até o Ensino Médio (RR = 1,65; IC95%: 1,18-2,33). Não houve associações quanto às demais variáveis, nem com distorção para mais peso. Os resultados contribuem para a explicação das relações entre percepção da imagem corporal e fatores socioeconômicos, revelando que mulheres de raça/cor diferentes e variados níveis de escolaridade são influenciadas de formas distintas pelos discursos sociais, o que impacta a percepção da sua imagem corporal.

La distorsión de la imagen corporal es una alteración en la percepción del cuerpo que puede repercutir en la salud. Este estudio busca estimar, entre las mujeres participantes del Estudio Longitudinal de Salud del Adulto (ELSA-Brasil) que viven en Bahía, Brasil, la prevalencia de precisión y distorsión de la imagen corporal e investigar asociaciones con las características socioeconómicas, el estilo de vida y la busca de atención ginecológica. Participaron 609 mujeres que tenían entre 50 y 69 años que contestaron los cuestionarios aplicados cara a cara entre 2012 y 2014. Se utilizó la escala de siluetas de Stunkard para investigar la percepción precisa o distorsionada para más o menos peso. El cociente de riesgo relativo (RR) se calculó a través de regresión logística multinomial utilizando el Stata 13. La mayoría de los participantes tiene una perspectiva precisa del propio cuerpo (53,7%). Entre las personas con percepción distorsionada hay una tendencia a la distorsión para menos peso (38,1%). En el análisis de regresión multinomial, las variables raza/color y escolaridad permanecieron asociadas con la distorsión para menos peso, siendo la primera positivamente asociada con la distorsión para menos peso entre las mujeres pardas (RR = 1,89; IC95%: 1,13-3,16) y negras (RR = 2,10; IC95%: 1,25-3,55), mientras la segunda entre las mujeres que estudiaron hasta la enseñanza secundaria (RR = 1,65; IC95%: 1,18-2,33). No hubo asociaciones con las otras variables ni con la distorsión para más peso. Los resultados contribuyen para explicar las relaciones entre la percepción de la imagen corporal y los factores socioeconómicos, demostrando que mujeres de diferentes razas/colores y diferentes niveles de educación se influyen de distintas formas a través de discursos sociales, lo que impacta en la percepción de su imagen corporal.

Income Segregation, Conditional Cash Transfers, and Breast Cancer Mortality Among Women in Brazil.

Importance: Women living in income-segregated areas are less likely to receive adequate breast cancer care and access community resources, which may heighten breast cancer mortality risk. Objective: To investigate the association between income segregation and breast cancer mortality and whether this association is attenuated by receipt of the Bolsa Família program (BFP), the world's largest conditional cash-transfer program. Design, Setting, and Participants: This cohort study was conducted using data from the 100 Million Brazilian Cohort, which were linked with nationwide mortality registries (2004-2015). Data were analyzed from December 2021 to June 2023. Study participants were women aged 18 to 100 years. Exposure: Women's income segregation (high, medium, or low) at the municipality level was obtained using income data from the 2010 Brazilian census and assessed using dissimilarity index values in tertiles (low [0.01-0.25], medium [0.26-0.32], and high [0.33-0.73]). Main Outcomes and Measures: The main outcome was breast cancer mortality. Mortality rate ratios (MRRs) for the association of segregation with breast cancer deaths were estimated using Poisson regression adjusted for age, race, education, municipality area size, population density, area of residence (rural or urban), and year of enrollment. Multiplicative interactions of segregation and BFP receipt (yes or no) in the association with mortality (2004-2015) were assessed. Results: Data on 21 680 930 women (mean [SD] age, 36.1 [15.3] years) were analyzed. Breast cancer mortality was greater among women living in municipalities with high (adjusted MRR [aMRR], 1.18; 95% CI, 1.13-1.24) and medium (aMRR, 1.08; 95% CI, 1.03-1.12) compared with low segregation. Women who did not receive BFP had higher breast cancer mortality than BFP recipients (aMRR, 1.17; 95% CI, 1.12-1.22). By BFP strata, women who did not receive BFP and lived in municipalities with high income segregation had a 24% greater risk of death from breast cancer compared with those living in municipalities with low income segregation (aMRR, 1.24: 95% CI, 1.14-1.34); women who received BFP and were living in areas with high income segregation had a 13% higher risk of death from breast cancer compared with those living in municipalities with low income segregation (aMRR, 1.13; 95% CI, 1.07-1.19; P for interaction = .008). Stratified by the amount of time receiving the benefit, segregation (high vs low) was associated with an increase in mortality risk for women receiving BFP for less time but not for those receiving it for more time (<4 years: aMRR, 1.16; 95% CI, 1.07-1.27; 4-11 years: aMRR, 1.09; 95% CI, 1.00-1.17; P for interaction <.001). Conclusions and Relevance: These findings suggest that place-based inequities in breast cancer mortality associated with income segregation may be mitigated with BFP receipt, possibly via improved income and access to preventive cancer care services among women, which may be associated with early detection and treatment and ultimately reduced mortality.

The intersection of race/ethnicity and socioeconomic status: inequalities in breast and cervical cancer mortality in 20,665,005 adult women from the 100 Million Brazilian Cohort.

OBJECTIVES: There is limited evidence regarding the impact of race/racism and its intersection with socioeconomic status (SES) on breast and cervical cancer, the two most common female cancers globally. We investigated racial inequalities in breast and cervical cancer mortality and whether SES (education and household conditions) interacted with race/ethnicity. DESIGN: The 100 Million Brazilian Cohort data were linked to the Brazilian Mortality Database, 2004-2015 (n = 20,665,005 adult women). We analysed the association between self-reported race/ethnicity (White/'Parda'(Brown)/Black/Asian/Indigenous) and cancer mortality using Poisson regression, adjusting for age, calendar year, education, household conditions and area of residence. Additive and multiplicative interactions were assessed. RESULTS: Cervical cancer mortality rates were higher among Indigenous (adjusted Mortality rate ratio = 1.80, 95%CI 1.39-2.33), Asian (1.63, 1.20-2.22), 'Parda'(Brown) (1.27, 1.21-1.33) and Black (1.18, 1.09-1.28) women vs White women. Breast cancer mortality rates were higher among Black (1.10, 1.04-1.17) vs White women. Racial inequalities in cervical cancer mortality were larger among women of poor household conditions, and low education (P for multiplicative interaction <0.001, and 0.02, respectively). Compared to White women living in completely adequate (3-4) household conditions, the risk of cervical cancer mortality in Black women with 3-4, 1-2, and none adequate conditions was 1.10 (1.01-1.21), 1.48 (1.28-1.71), and 2.03 (1.56-2.63), respectively (Relative excess risk due to interaction-RERI = 0.78, 0.18-1.38). Among 'Parda'(Brown) women the risk was 1.18 (1.11-1.25), 1.68 (1.56-1.81), and 1.84 (1.63-2.08), respectively (RERI = 0.52, 0.16-0.87). Compared to high-educated White women, the risk in high-, middle- and low-educated Black women was 1.14 (0.83-1.55), 1.93 (1.57-2.38) and 2.75 (2.33-3.25), respectively (RERI = 0.36, -0.05-0.77). Among 'Parda'(Brown) women the risk was 1.09 (0.91-1.31), 1.99 (1.70-2.33) and 3.03 (2.61-3.52), respectively (RERI = 0.68, 0.48-0.88). No interactions were found for breast cancer. CONCLUSION: Low SES magnified racial inequalities in cervical cancer mortality. The intersection between race/ethnicity, SES and gender needs to be addressed to reduce racial health inequalities.

Percepção de imagem corporal, características socioeconômicas e estilo de vida em mulheres participantes do ELSA-Brasil na Bahia, Brasil / Body image perception, socioeconomic characteristics, and lifestyle in women participating in ELSA-Brasil in Bahia, Brazil / Percepción de la imagen corporal, características socioeconómicas y estilo de vida en mujeres participantes del ELSA-Brasil en Bahía, Brasil

Distorção da imagem corporal é uma alteração da percepção do corpo que pode repercutir na saúde. Este estudo visa estimar, entre mulheres participantes do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (ELSA-Brasil) residentes na Bahia, Brasil, a prevalência de acurácia e distorção da imagem corporal e investigar associações com características socioeconômicas, estilo de vida e procura de cuidados ginecológicos. Participaram 609 mulheres de 50-69 anos de idade que responderam, entre 2012-2014, questionários aplicados face a face. Foi utilizada a escala de silhuetas de Stunkard para investigar a percepção acurada ou distorcida para mais ou menos peso. A razão de risco relativo (RR) foi calculada por meio de regressão logística multinomial por meio do Stata 13. A maioria das participantes tem perspectiva acurada do próprio corpo (53,7%). Entre aquelas com percepção distorcida, há uma tendência à distorção para menos peso (38,1%). Na análise de regressão multinomial, permaneceram associadas à distorção para menos peso as variáveis raça/cor e escolaridade, sendo que a primeira foi positivamente associada à distorção para menos peso entre as pardas (RR = 1,89; IC95%: 1,13-3,16) e pretas (RR = 2,10; IC95%: 1,25-3,55), enquanto a segunda entre aquelas com escolaridade até o Ensino Médio (RR = 1,65; IC95%: 1,18-2,33). Não houve associações quanto às demais variáveis, nem com distorção para mais peso. Os resultados contribuem para a explicação das relações entre percepção da imagem corporal e fatores socioeconômicos, revelando que mulheres de raça/cor diferentes e variados níveis de escolaridade são influenciadas de formas distintas pelos discursos sociais, o que impacta a percepção da sua imagem corporal.

Body image distortion is an alteration in the perception of the body that can have repercussions on health. This study aims to estimate the prevalence of body image accuracy and distortion among women participating in the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil) living in Bahia State, Brazil, and to investigate associations with socioeconomic characteristics, lifestyle, and gynecological care seeking. A total of 609 women aged 50 to 69 years participated in the study, who answered face-to-face questionnaires from 2012 to 2014. The Stunkard silhouette scale was used to investigate accurate or distorted perception for more or less weight. The relative risk ratio (RR) was calculated by multinomial logistic regression using Stata 13. Most participants have an accurate perception of their own bodies (53.7%). Among those with distorted perception, there is a tendency to distort towards less weight (38.1%). In the multinomial regression analysis, the variables race/skin color and education remained associated with the distortion towards underweight. The race/skin color variable was positively associated with the distortion towards underweight among Mixed-race women (RR = 1.89; 95%CI: 1.13-3.16) and black (RR = 2.10; 95%CI: 1.25-3.55), while the education variable among those with up to high school education (RR = 1.65; 95%CI: 1.18-2.33). There were no associations with the other variables or with distortion for more weight. The results contribute to explaining the relationships between body image perception and socioeconomic factors, revealing that women of different races/skin colors and varying educational levels are influenced in different ways by social discourses, impacting the perception of their body image.

La distorsión de la imagen corporal es una alteración en la percepción del cuerpo que puede repercutir en la salud. Este estudio busca estimar, entre las mujeres participantes del Estudio Longitudinal de Salud del Adulto (ELSA-Brasil) que viven en Bahía, Brasil, la prevalencia de precisión y distorsión de la imagen corporal e investigar asociaciones con las características socioeconómicas, el estilo de vida y la busca de atención ginecológica. Participaron 609 mujeres que tenían entre 50 y 69 años que contestaron los cuestionarios aplicados cara a cara entre 2012 y 2014. Se utilizó la escala de siluetas de Stunkard para investigar la percepción precisa o distorsionada para más o menos peso. El cociente de riesgo relativo (RR) se calculó a través de regresión logística multinomial utilizando el Stata 13. La mayoría de los participantes tiene una perspectiva precisa del propio cuerpo (53,7%). Entre las personas con percepción distorsionada hay una tendencia a la distorsión para menos peso (38,1%). En el análisis de regresión multinomial, las variables raza/color y escolaridad permanecieron asociadas con la distorsión para menos peso, siendo la primera positivamente asociada con la distorsión para menos peso entre las mujeres pardas (RR = 1,89; IC95%: 1,13-3,16) y negras (RR = 2,10; IC95%: 1,25-3,55), mientras la segunda entre las mujeres que estudiaron hasta la enseñanza secundaria (RR = 1,65; IC95%: 1,18-2,33). No hubo asociaciones con las otras variables ni con la distorsión para más peso. Los resultados contribuyen para explicar las relaciones entre la percepción de la imagen corporal y los factores socioeconómicos, demostrando que mujeres de diferentes razas/colores y diferentes niveles de educación se influyen de distintas formas a través de discursos sociales, lo que impacta en la percepción de su imagen corporal.

Patterns of metabolic syndrome and associated factors in women from the ELSA-Brasil: a latent class analysis approach.

This study aimed to identify patterns of metabolic syndrome among women and estimate their prevalence and relationship with sociodemographic and biological characteristics. In total, 5,836 women were evaluated using baseline data from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). Patterns of metabolic syndrome were defined via latent class analysis, using the following metabolic abnormalities as indicators: abdominal obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, and reduced HDL cholesterol. The relationship between these patterns and individual characteristics was assessed using latent class analysis with covariates. Three patterns of metabolic syndrome were identified: high metabolic expression, moderate metabolic expression, and low metabolic expression. The first two patterns represented most women (53.8%) in the study. Women with complete primary or secondary education and belonging to lower social classes were more likely to have higher metabolic expression. Black and mixed-race women were more likely to have moderate metabolic expression. Menopausal women aged 50 years and older were more often classified into patterns of greater health risk. This study addressed the heterogeneous nature of metabolic syndrome, identifying three distinct profiles for the syndrome among women. The combination of abdominal obesity, hyperglycemia, and hypertension represents the main metabolic profile found among ELSA-Brasil participants. Sociodemographic and biological factors were important predictors of patterns of metabolic syndrome.

Patterns of metabolic syndrome and associated factors in women from the ELSA-Brasil: a latent class analysis approach / Padrões de síndrome metabólica e fatores associados em mulheres do ELSA-Brasil: uma abordagem com análise de classes latentes / Patrones del síndrome metabólico y factores asociados en mujeres del ELSA-Brasil: un enfoque con análisis de clases latentes

Abstract: This study aimed to identify patterns of metabolic syndrome among women and estimate their prevalence and relationship with sociodemographic and biological characteristics. In total, 5,836 women were evaluated using baseline data from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). Patterns of metabolic syndrome were defined via latent class analysis, using the following metabolic abnormalities as indicators: abdominal obesity, hyperglycemia, hypertension, hypertriglyceridemia, and reduced HDL cholesterol. The relationship between these patterns and individual characteristics was assessed using latent class analysis with covariates. Three patterns of metabolic syndrome were identified: high metabolic expression, moderate metabolic expression, and low metabolic expression. The first two patterns represented most women (53.8%) in the study. Women with complete primary or secondary education and belonging to lower social classes were more likely to have higher metabolic expression. Black and mixed-race women were more likely to have moderate metabolic expression. Menopausal women aged 50 years and older were more often classified into patterns of greater health risk. This study addressed the heterogeneous nature of metabolic syndrome, identifying three distinct profiles for the syndrome among women. The combination of abdominal obesity, hyperglycemia, and hypertension represents the main metabolic profile found among ELSA-Brasil participants. Sociodemographic and biological factors were important predictors of patterns of metabolic syndrome.

Resumo: O objetivo foi identificar padrões de síndrome metabólica em mulheres, estimar suas prevalências e relações com características sociodemográficas e biológicas. Este estudo examinou 5.836 mulheres utilizando dados da linha de base do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (ELSA-Brasil). Os padrões de síndrome metabólica foram definidos por meio de análise de classe latente, usando as seguintes anormalidades metabólicas como indicadores: obesidade abdominal, hiperglicemia, hipertensão, hipertrigliceridemia e colesterol HDL reduzido. As relações entre os padrões de síndrome metabólica e as características individuais foram avaliadas por meio da análise de classes latentes com covariáveis. Foram identificados três padrões de síndrome metabólica, denominados "alta expressão metabólica", "expressão metabólica moderada" e "baixa expressão metabólica". Os dois primeiros padrões representaram a maioria (53,8%) das mulheres do estudo. As mulheres com nível de escolaridade primário ou secundário e pertencentes à classe social baixa tiveram maior chance de apresentar maior expressão metabólica. Negros e pardos tiveram maior chance de apresentar "expressão metabólica moderada". Mulheres na menopausa com 50 anos ou mais apresentaram maior chance de ter padrões de maior risco à saúde. Este estudo abordou a natureza heterogênea da síndrome metabólica, identificando três perfis distintos para a síndrome entre as mulheres. A combinação de obesidade abdominal, hiperglicemia e hipertensão representa o principal perfil metabólico encontrado entre os participantes do ELSA-Brasil. Fatores sociodemográficos e biológicos foram importantes preditores para os padrões de síndrome metabólica.

Resumen: El objetivo fue identificar patrones del síndrome metabólico en mujeres, estimar sus prevalencias y relaciones con características sociodemográficas y biológicas. Este estudio examinó 5.836 mujeres utilizando datos de la línea de base del Estudio Longitudinal de Salud del Adulto (ELSA-Brasil). Los patrones de síndrome metabólico se definieron a través del análisis de clase latente, utilizando las siguientes anormalidades metabólicas como indicadores: obesidad abdominal, hiperglucemia, hipertensión, hipertrigliceridemia y colesterol HDL reducido. Las relaciones entre los patrones de síndrome metabólico y las características individuales se evaluaron a través del análisis de clases latentes con covariables. Se identificaron tres patrones de síndrome metabólico, denominados "alta expresión metabólica", "expresión metabólica moderada" y "baja expresión metabólica". Los primeros dos patrones representan la mayoría (el 53,8%) de las mujeres del estudio. Las mujeres que tenían un nivel de escolaridad primario o secundario y que pertenecían a la clase social baja tuvieron una mayor probabilidad de presentar una expresión metabólica más alta. Los negros y pardos tuvieron una probabilidad más alta de presentar "expresión metabólica moderada". Las mujeres en la menopausia que tenían 50 años o más presentaron una probabilidad más alta de tener patrones de mayor riesgo para la salud. Este estudio abordó la naturaleza heterogénea del síndrome metabólico, identificando tres perfiles diferentes para el síndrome entre las mujeres. La combinación de obesidad abdominal, hiperglucemia e hipertensión representa el principal perfil metabólico encontrado entre los participantes del ELSA-Brasil. Factores sociodemográficos y biológicos fueron importantes predictores para los patrones de síndrome metabólico.

Hormone therapy and Hypertension in Postmenopausal Women: Results from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil). / Terapia Hormonal e Hipertensão em Mulheres na Pós-Menopausa: Resultados do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (ELSA-Brasil).

BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in post-menopausal women. Although menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is a very effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms during this period, the influence of this therapy on blood pressure is not yet clear. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the relationship between the use of MHT and hypertension in participants of the ELSA-Brasil. METHODS: A cross-sectional study using the baseline ELSA-Brasil data in a cohort of 2,138 women who had experienced natural menopause. This study analyzed hypertension, defined as arterial pressure ≥140/90 mmHg or previous antihypertensive use, and use of MHT, with participants being classified into never, past, and current users. Associations were assessed using an adjusted logistic regression model, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. RESULTS: Overall, 1,492 women (69.8%) had never used MHT, 457 (21.4%) had used it in the past, and 189 (8.8%) were current users. The use of MHT was more common in women who had a body mass index (BMI) <25 kg/m2and triglyceride levels <150 mg/dl, and who were physically less inactive, non-smokers, and non-diabetics. Current MHT users were less likely to have hypertension (OR=0.59; 95% CI: 0.41-0.85) compared to those who had never used MHT. In most cases, MHT was started at or before 59 years of age, within 10 years of becoming menopausal, and its use lasted for up to five years. CONCLUSION: Current MHT use was not related to hypertension, particularly in healthy women and in those under 60 years of age.

FUNDAMENTO: A hipertensão arterial é considerada um importante fator de risco de morbidade e mortalidade cardiovascular em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Embora a terapia hormonal da menopausa (THM) seja um tratamento muito eficiente para sintomas vasomotores nesse período, a influência dessa terapia na pressão arterial ainda não está clara. OBJETIVO: Avaliar a relação entre o uso de THM e a hipertensão em participantes do ELSA-Brasil. MÉTODOS: Um estudo transversal usando dados da linha de base da coorte ELSA-Brasil, com 2.138 mulheres que passaram por menopausa natural. Neste estudo, foi analisado a hipertensão, definida como pressão arterial ≥140/90 mmHg ou uso anterior de anti-hipertensivo, e o uso da THM, com participantes sendo classificadas em grupos daquelas que nunca usaram, que já usaram e que estavam em uso atual. As associações foram avaliadas usando-se um modelo de regressão logística multivariada com uma significância estatística definida em p<0,05. RESULTADOS: No total, 1.492 mulheres (69,8%) nunca tinham usado a THM, 457 (21,4%) tinham usado no passado, e 189 (8,8%) estavam em uso atual. O uso de THM foi mais comum em mulheres que tinham índice de massa corporal <25 kg/m2 e níveis de triglicérides <150 mg/dl, que eram fisicamente menos inativas, não fumantes e não diabéticas. As mulheres em uso atual da THM apresentaram menores chances de ter hipertensão (OR=0,59; IC 95%: 0,41-0,85), em comparação com as que nunca a usaram. Na maioria dos casos, a THM foi iniciada com idade até 59 anos, com menos de 10 anos de menopausa e o uso durou até cinco anos. CONCLUSÃO: O uso atual da THM não esteve relacionado à hipertensão, especialmente em mulheres saudáveis e que tinham menos de 60 anos de idade.

Terapia Hormonal e Hipertensão em Mulheres na Pós-Menopausa: Resultados do Estudo Longitudinal de Saúde do Adulto (ELSA-Brasil) / Hormone therapy and Hypertension in Postmenopausal Women: Results from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA-Brasil)

Resumo Fundamento A hipertensão arterial é considerada um importante fator de risco de morbidade e mortalidade cardiovascular em mulheres na pós-menopausa. Embora a terapia hormonal da menopausa (THM) seja um tratamento muito eficiente para sintomas vasomotores nesse período, a influência dessa terapia na pressão arterial ainda não está clara. Objetivo Avaliar a relação entre o uso de THM e a hipertensão em participantes do ELSA-Brasil. Métodos Um estudo transversal usando dados da linha de base da coorte ELSA-Brasil, com 2.138 mulheres que passaram por menopausa natural. Neste estudo, foi analisado a hipertensão, definida como pressão arterial ≥140/90 mmHg ou uso anterior de anti-hipertensivo, e o uso da THM, com participantes sendo classificadas em grupos daquelas que nunca usaram, que já usaram e que estavam em uso atual. As associações foram avaliadas usando-se um modelo de regressão logística multivariada com uma significância estatística definida em p<0,05. Resultados No total, 1.492 mulheres (69,8%) nunca tinham usado a THM, 457 (21,4%) tinham usado no passado, e 189 (8,8%) estavam em uso atual. O uso de THM foi mais comum em mulheres que tinham índice de massa corporal <25 kg/m2 e níveis de triglicérides <150 mg/dl, que eram fisicamente menos inativas, não fumantes e não diabéticas. As mulheres em uso atual da THM apresentaram menores chances de ter hipertensão (OR=0,59; IC 95%: 0,41-0,85), em comparação com as que nunca a usaram. Na maioria dos casos, a THM foi iniciada com idade até 59 anos, com menos de 10 anos de menopausa e o uso durou até cinco anos. Conclusão O uso atual da THM não esteve relacionado à hipertensão, especialmente em mulheres saudáveis e que tinham menos de 60 anos de idade.

Abstract Background Hypertension is a major risk factor for cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in post-menopausal women. Although menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) is a very effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms during this period, the influence of this therapy on blood pressure is not yet clear. Objective To evaluate the relationship between the use of MHT and hypertension in participants of the ELSA-Brasil. Methods A cross-sectional study using the baseline ELSA-Brasil data in a cohort of 2,138 women who had experienced natural menopause. This study analyzed hypertension, defined as arterial pressure ≥140/90 mmHg or previous antihypertensive use, and use of MHT, with participants being classified into never, past, and current users. Associations were assessed using an adjusted logistic regression model, with statistical significance set at p<0.05. Results Overall, 1,492 women (69.8%) had never used MHT, 457 (21.4%) had used it in the past, and 189 (8.8%) were current users. The use of MHT was more common in women who had a body mass index (BMI) <25 kg/m2and triglyceride levels <150 mg/dl, and who were physically less inactive, non-smokers, and non-diabetics. Current MHT users were less likely to have hypertension (OR=0.59; 95% CI: 0.41-0.85) compared to those who had never used MHT. In most cases, MHT was started at or before 59 years of age, within 10 years of becoming menopausal, and its use lasted for up to five years. Conclusion Current MHT use was not related to hypertension, particularly in healthy women and in those under 60 years of age.

Healthy lifestyle behaviors and the periodicity of mammography screening in Brazilian women.

INTRODUCTION: Certain behaviors have been associated with health promotion, including mammography screening, in women worldwide. OBJECTIVE: The objective of this study was to determine whether there is an association between the periodicity of mammography screening and healthy lifestyle behaviors in Brazilian women employed at a public university in Bahia, Brazil. METHODS: A total of 635 women of 50-69 years of age at the time of the interview, from the Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health cohort who were resident in Bahia, participated in the study. Data were collected using a multidimensional questionnaire that included questions on participants' sociodemographic characteristics and health-related behaviors (smoking, alcohol consumption, leisure-time physical activity and diet) and another questionnaire that dealt with risk factors and breast cancer screening. Measures of association were calculated using simple and multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS: The practice of physical activity, not smoking, moderate alcohol consumption and a healthy diet were the health behaviors most adopted by the women who had last had a mammogram ⩽2 years previously (which is in line with the interval recommended by the Brazilian Ministry of Health). A statistically significant association was found between a lapse of ⩾3 years since last undergoing mammography screening and excessive alcohol consumption, while a borderline association was found between the same screening interval and leisure-time physical inactivity. CONCLUSION: There was an association between lifestyle risk behaviors and a longer time interval between mammography screenings. The present results contribute to the debate on the use of mammography, lifestyle behaviors and health promotion among women.

Using the Robson classification to assess caesarean section rates in Brazil: an observational study of more than 24 million births from 2011 to 2017.

BACKGROUND: Applying the Robson classification to all births in Brazil, the objectives of our study were to estimate the rates of caesarean section delivery, assess the extent to which caesarean sections were clinically indicated, and identify variation across socioeconomic groups. METHODS: We conducted a population-based study using routine records of the Live Births Information System in Brazil from January 1, 2011, to December 31, 2017. We calculated the relative size of each Robson group; the caesarean section rate; and the contribution to the overall caesarean section rate. We categorised Brazilian municipalities using the Human Development Index to explore caesarean section rates further. We estimated the time trend in caesarean section rates. RESULTS: The rate of caesarean sections was higher in older and more educated women. Prelabour caesarean sections accounted for more than 54 % of all caesarean deliveries. Women with a previous caesarean section (Group 5) made up the largest group (21.7 %). Groups 6-9, for whom caesarean sections would be indicated in most cases, all had caesarean section rates above 82 %, as did Group 5. The caesarean section rates were higher in municipalities with a higher HDI. The general Brazilian caesarean section rate remained stable during the study period. CONCLUSIONS: Brazil is a country with one of the world's highest caesarean section rates. This nationwide population-based study provides the evidence needed to inform efforts to improve the provision of clinically indicated caesarean sections. Our results showed that caesarean section rates were lower among lower socioeconomic groups even when clinically indicated, suggesting sub-optimal access to surgical care.

Abortion and the COVID-19 pandemic: insights for Latin America.

The COVID-19 pandemic may accentuate existing problems, hindering access to legal abortion, with a consequent increase in unsafe abortions. This scenario may be even worse in low- and middle-income countries, especially in Latin America, where abortion laws are already restrictive and access to services is already hampered. Our objective was to understand how different countries, with an emphasis on Latin Americans, have dealt with legal abortion services in the context of the COVID-19. Thus, we conducted a narrative review on abortion and COVID-19. The 75 articles included, plus other relevant references, indicate that the pandemic affects sexual and reproductive health services by amplifying existing problems and restricting access to reproductive rights, such as legal abortion. This impact may be even stronger in low- and middle-income countries, especially in Latin America, where access to legal abortion is normally restricted. The revision of sources in this article underlines the urgent need to maintain legal abortion services, both from women's perspective, in support of their reproductive rights, but also from that of the international commitment to achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Thereby, Latin American countries must place reproductive rights as a priority on their agendas and adapt legislation to accommodate alternative models of abortion care. Furthermore, our results underscore the need for clear information on the functioning of sexual and reproductive health services as essential for understanding the impact of the pandemic on legal abortion and to identify the groups most affected by the changes.

The effect of laboratory testing on COVID-19 monitoring indicators: an analysis of the 50 countries with the highest number of cases. / O efeito da testagem laboratorial nos indicadores de acompanhamento da COVID-19: uma análise dos 50 países com maior número de casos.

OBJECTIVE: To analyse how testing the population influences the health indicators used to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic in the 50 countries with the highest number of diagnosed cases. METHODS: This was an ecological study using secondary data retrieved on 8/19/2020. Cumulative incidence, mortality rate, case-fatality rate, and proportion of positive tests were calculated. The data were described and presented graphically, with their respective Spearman Correlation Coefficients. RESULTS: The testing rate varied enormously between countries. Cumulative incidence and the proportion of positive tests were correlated with the number of tests, while the mortality rate and case-fatality rate showed low correlation with this indicator. CONCLUSION: Most countries do not test enough to ensure adequate monitoring of the pandemic, and this is reflected in the quality of the indicators. Expanding the number of tests is essential, but it needs to be accompanied by other measures, such as isolation of diagnosed cases and contact tracing.

[Covid-19 in the Northeast of Brazil: from lockdown to the relaxation of social distancing measures]. / Covid-19 no nordeste do Brasil: entre o lockdown e o relaxamento das medidas de distanciamento social.

Even in the period when the Covid-19 pandemic was on the rise in the Northeast of Brazil, the relaxation of social distancing measures was introduced. The scope of the study is to assess, in the light of the epidemiological-sanitary situation in the region, the suitability of relaxation of social distancing measures. Based on the WHO guidelines for relaxation of social distancing, operational indicators were created and analyzed for each guideline in the context of the Northeast. To analyze the behavior of the epidemic, according to selected indicators, Joinpoint trend analysis techniques, heat maps, rate ratios and time trends between capitals and the state interior were compared. The weekly growth peak of the epidemic occurred in May-July 2020 (epidemiological weeks 19 to 31). In most capitals, there was no simultaneous downward trend in the number of cases and deaths in the 14 days prior to flexibilization. In all states the number of tests performed was insufficient. In epidemiological week 24, the state percentages of ICU/Covid-19 bed occupancy were close to or above 70%. The epidemiological situation of the nine Northeastern state capitals analyzed here did not meet criteria and parameters recommended by the World Health Organization for the relaxation of social distancing measures.

Mesmo no período em que a pandemia de Covid-19 encontrava-se em crescimento no Nordeste do Brasil, iniciou-se a adoção de medidas de flexibilização do distanciamento social. O objetivo do estudo é o de avaliar a pertinência das propostas de flexibilização, tomando-se em conta a situação da pandemia em cada local e o momento em que foram adotadas. Tendo como referência as diretrizes da OMS, foram construídos e analisados indicadores operacionais para cada diretriz, no contexto da região Nordeste. Para análise do comportamento da epidemia, conforme indicadores selecionados, foram usadas técnicas de Joinpoint Trend Analysis, mapas de calor, razão de taxas e comparação da tendência temporal entre capitais e interior dos estados. O pico do crescimento semanal ocorreu em maio-julho/2020 (semanas epidemiológicas 19 a 31). Na maioria das capitais não se observou tendência decrescente simultânea do número de casos e óbitos nos 14 dias prévios à flexibilização. Em todos os estados o quantitativo de testes realizados foi insuficiente. Na semana epidemiológica 24 os percentuais estaduais de ocupação de leitos de UTI/Covid-19 foram próximos ou superiores 70%. A situação epidemiológica das nove capitais dos estados do Nordeste, no momento em que a decisão de flexibilização foi tomada, mostra que nenhuma delas atendia aos critérios e parâmetros recomendados pela OMS.

Covid-19 no nordeste do Brasil: entre o lockdown e o relaxamento das medidas de distanciamento social / Covid-19 in the Northeast of Brazil: from lockdown to the relaxation of social distancing measures

Resumo Mesmo no período em que a pandemia de Covid-19 encontrava-se em crescimento no Nordeste do Brasil, iniciou-se a adoção de medidas de flexibilização do distanciamento social. O objetivo do estudo é o de avaliar a pertinência das propostas de flexibilização, tomando-se em conta a situação da pandemia em cada local e o momento em que foram adotadas. Tendo como referência as diretrizes da OMS, foram construídos e analisados indicadores operacionais para cada diretriz, no contexto da região Nordeste. Para análise do comportamento da epidemia, conforme indicadores selecionados, foram usadas técnicas de Joinpoint Trend Analysis, mapas de calor, razão de taxas e comparação da tendência temporal entre capitais e interior dos estados. O pico do crescimento semanal ocorreu em maio-julho/2020 (semanas epidemiológicas 19 a 31). Na maioria das capitais não se observou tendência decrescente simultânea do número de casos e óbitos nos 14 dias prévios à flexibilização. Em todos os estados o quantitativo de testes realizados foi insuficiente. Na semana epidemiológica 24 os percentuais estaduais de ocupação de leitos de UTI/Covid-19 foram próximos ou superiores 70%. A situação epidemiológica das nove capitais dos estados do Nordeste, no momento em que a decisão de flexibilização foi tomada, mostra que nenhuma delas atendia aos critérios e parâmetros recomendados pela OMS.

Abstract Even in the period when the Covid-19 pandemic was on the rise in the Northeast of Brazil, the relaxation of social distancing measures was introduced. The scope of the study is to assess, in the light of the epidemiological-sanitary situation in the region, the suitability of relaxation of social distancing measures. Based on the WHO guidelines for relaxation of social distancing, operational indicators were created and analyzed for each guideline in the context of the Northeast. To analyze the behavior of the epidemic, according to selected indicators, Joinpoint trend analysis techniques, heat maps, rate ratios and time trends between capitals and the state interior were compared. The weekly growth peak of the epidemic occurred in May-July 2020 (epidemiological weeks 19 to 31). In most capitals, there was no simultaneous downward trend in the number of cases and deaths in the 14 days prior to flexibilization. In all states the number of tests performed was insufficient. In epidemiological week 24, the state percentages of ICU/Covid-19 bed occupancy were close to or above 70%. The epidemiological situation of the nine Northeastern state capitals analyzed here did not meet criteria and parameters recommended by the World Health Organization for the relaxation of social distancing measures.

O efeito da testagem laboratorial nos indicadores de acompanhamento da COVID-19: uma análise dos 50 países com maior número de casos / El efecto de las pruebas de laboratorio en los indicadores de seguimiento de COVID-19: un análisis de los 50 países con el mayor número de casos / The effect of laboratory testing on COVID-19 monitoring indicators: an analysis of the 50 countries with the highest number of cases

Objetivo: Analisar como a testagem da população influencia os indicadores de saúde usados para monitorar a pandemia de COVID-19 nos 50 países com maior número de casos diagnosticados. Métodos: Estudo ecológico sobre dados secundários, extraídos em 19/08/2020. Foram calculadas incidência acumulada, taxa de mortalidade, letalidade e proporção de testes positivos. Os dados foram descritos e apresentados graficamente, com o respectivo coeficiente de correlação de Spearman. Resultados: A taxa de testagem variou enormemente entre os países. A incidência acumulada e a proporção de testes positivos foram correlacionadas ao número de testes, enquanto a taxa de mortalidade e a letalidade apresentaram correlação baixa com esse indicador. Conclusão: A maioria dos países não testa o suficiente para garantir adequado monitoramento da pandemia, com reflexo na qualidade dos indicadores. A ampliação do número de testes é fundamental; porém, ela deve ser acompanhada de outras medidas, como isolamento de casos diagnosticados e rastreamento de contatos.

Objetivo: Analizar cómo el testeo poblacional influye en los indicadores de salud utilizados para monitorear la pandemia de COVID-19 en los 50 países con mayor número de casos diagnosticados. Métodos: Estudio ecológico, con datos secundarios, recogidos el 19/8/2020. Se calcularon la incidencia acumulada, la tasa de mortalidad, la letalidad y la proporción de pruebas positivas. Los datos fueron descritos y presentados gráficamente, con el respectivo Coeficiente de Correlación de Spearman. Resultados: La tasa de testeo varió enormemente entre los países. La incidencia acumulada y la proporción de pruebas positivas se correlacionaron con el número de pruebas, mientras que la tasa de mortalidad y de letalidad mostraron una baja correlación con este indicador. Conclusión: La mayoría de los países no realizan suficientes pruebas para garantizar un seguimiento adecuado de la pandemia, lo que se refleja en la calidad de los indicadores. La ampliación del número de pruebas es fundamental, y debe ir acompañada de aislamiento de casos y seguimiento de contactos.

Objective: To analyse how testing the population influences the health indicators used to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic in the 50 countries with the highest number of diagnosed cases. Methods:This was an ecological study using secondary data retrieved on 8/19/2020. Cumulative incidence, mortality rate, case-fatality rate, and proportion of positive tests were calculated. The data were described and presented graphically, with their respective Spearman Correlation Coefficients. Results: The testing rate varied enormously between countries. Cumulative incidence and the proportion of positive tests were correlated with the number of tests, while the mortality rate and case-fatality rate showed low correlation with this indicator. Conclusion: Most countries do not test enough to ensure adequate monitoring of the pandemic, and this is reflected in the quality of the indicators. Expanding the number of tests is essential, but it needs to be accompanied by other measures, such as isolation of diagnosed cases and contact tracing.

Abortion and the COVID-19 pandemic: insights for Latin America / Aborto e a pandemia da COVID-19: lições para América Latina / Aborto y pandemia de COVID-19: reflexiones para Latinoamérica

The COVID-19 pandemic may accentuate existing problems, hindering access to legal abortion, with a consequent increase in unsafe abortions. This scenario may be even worse in low- and middle-income countries, especially in Latin America, where abortion laws are already restrictive and access to services is already hampered. Our objective was to understand how different countries, with an emphasis on Latin Americans, have dealt with legal abortion services in the context of the COVID-19. Thus, we conducted a narrative review on abortion and COVID-19. The 75 articles included, plus other relevant references, indicate that the pandemic affects sexual and reproductive health services by amplifying existing problems and restricting access to reproductive rights, such as legal abortion. This impact may be even stronger in low- and middle-income countries, especially in Latin America, where access to legal abortion is normally restricted. The revision of sources in this article underlines the urgent need to maintain legal abortion services, both from women's perspective, in support of their reproductive rights, but also from that of the international commitment to achieving the Millennium Development Goals. Thereby, Latin American countries must place reproductive rights as a priority on their agendas and adapt legislation to accommodate alternative models of abortion care. Furthermore, our results underscore the need for clear information on the functioning of sexual and reproductive health services as essential for understanding the impact of the pandemic on legal abortion and to identify the groups most affected by the changes.

A pandemia da COVID-19 pode agravar problemas existentes, dificultando o acesso ao aborto legal e resultando em um aumento dos abortos inseguros. O cenário pode ser ainda pior nos países de renda média e baixa, principalmente na América Latina, onde as leis sobre aborto já são restritivas e o acesso aos serviços é dificultado. Tivemos como objetivo, compreender como os diferentes países, com ênfase nos latino-americanos, têm lidado com os serviços de aborto legal no contexto da COVID-19. Para tal, foi realizada uma revisão narrativa sobre aborto e COVID-19. Os 75 artigos incluídos, além de outras referências relevantes, indicam que a pandemia impacta os serviços de saúde sexual e reprodutiva, ao agravar os problemas existentes e restringir o acesso aos direitos reprodutivos, incluindo o direito ao aborto legal. O impacto pode ser ainda mais sério nos países de renda baixa e média, principalmente na América Latina, onde o acesso ao aborto legal costuma ser restrito. A revisão das fontes no artigo destaca a necessidade urgente de manter em funcionamento os serviços de aborto legal, tanto da perspectiva das mulheres, em apoio aos seus direitos reprodutivos, quanto do compromisso internacional para atingir os Objetivos de Desenvolvimento do Milênio. Assim, os países da América Latina devem priorizar os direitos reprodutivos nas agendas nacionais e adaptar suas legislações para acomodar modelos alternativos de assistência ao aborto. Nossos resultados também destacam a necessidade de informações precisas sobre o funcionamento dos serviços de saúde sexual e reprodutiva, essenciais para compreender o impacto da pandemia sobre o aborto legal e para identificar os grupos mais afetados pelas mudanças.

La pandemia de COVID-19 puede acentuar problemas existentes, impidiendo el acceso al aborto legal, con el consiguiente incremento de abortos inseguros. Este escenario es quizás incluso peor en los países de bajos y medios ingresos, especialmente en Latinoamérica, donde las leyes del aborto son de por sí restrictivas y el acceso a los servicios ya se encuentra obstaculizado. Nuestro objetivo fue comprender cómo han lidiado diferentes países, poniendo énfasis en los latinoamericanos, con servicios legales de aborto en el contexto de la COVID-19. Por lo tanto, realizamos una revisión narrativa sobre el aborto y el COVID-19. Se incluyeron 75 artículos, así como otras referencias relevantes, indicando que la pandemia impacta en los servicios de salud sexual y reproductiva, lo que amplifica los problemas existentes y restringe el acceso a derechos reproductivos, tales como el aborto legal. Este impacto quizás fue incluso más fuerte en los países con ingresos bajos y medios, especialmente en Latinoamérica, donde el acceso al aborto legal se encuentra restringido normalmente. La revisión de fuentes en este artículo subraya la necesidad urgente de mantener los servicios de aborto legal, tanto desde la perspectiva de las mujeres, apoyando sus derechos reproductivos, así como también desde el compromiso internacional, con el fin de alcanzar las Objetivos de Desarrollo del Milenio. De este modo, los países latinoamericanos deben situar los derechos reproductivos como prioridad en sus agendas y adaptar su legislación para incorporar modelos alternativos de atención al aborto. Nuestros resultados también destacam la necesidad de información precisa para el funcionamiento de los servicios de salud sexuales y reproductivos, como algo esencial para entender el impacto de la pandemia en el aborto legal, así como para identicar a los grupos más afectados por los cambios.

The effect of laboratory testing on COVID-19 monitoring indicators: an analysis of the 50 countries with the highest number of cases / El efecto de las pruebas de laboratorio en los indicadores de seguimiento de COVID-19: un análisis de los 50 países con el mayor número de casos / O efeito da testagem laboratorial nos indicadores de acompanhamento da COVID-19: uma análise dos 50 países com maior número de casos

Objective: To analyze how population testing influences the health indicators used to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic in the 50 countries with the highest number of diagnosed cases. Methods: Ecological study, with secondary data, downloaded on 8/19/2020. Accumulated incidence, mortality rate, case-fatality rate, and proportion of positive tests were calculated. The data were described and presented graphically, with the respective Spearman Correlation Coefficient. Results: The testing rate varied enormously between countries. The accumulated incidence and the proportion of positive tests were correlated with the number of tests, while the mortality rate and case-fatality rate showed a low correlation with this indicator. Conclusion: Most countries do not test enough to ensure adequate monitoring of the pandemic, reflecting on the quality of the indicators. The expansion of the number of tests is essential, but it needs to be accompanied by other measures, such as isolation of diagnosed cases and contact tracking.

Objetivo: Analisar como a testagem da população influencia os indicadores de saúde usados para monitorar a pandemia de COVID-19 nos 50 países com maior número de casos diagnosticados. Métodos: Estudo ecológico sobre dados secundários, extraídos em 19/08/2020. Foram calculadas incidência acumulada, taxa de mortalidade, letalidade e proporção de testes positivos. Os dados foram descritos e apresentados graficamente, com o respectivo coeficiente de correlação de Spearman. Resultados: A taxa de testagem variou enormemente entre os países. A incidência acumulada e a proporção de testes positivos foram correlacionadas ao número de testes, enquanto a taxa de mortalidade e a letalidade apresentaram correlação baixa com esse indicador. Conclusão: A maioria dos países não testa o suficiente para garantir adequado monitoramento da pandemia, com reflexo na qualidade dos indicadores. A ampliação do número de testes é fundamental; porém, ela deve ser acompanhada de outras medidas, como isolamento de casos diagnosticados e rastreamento de contatos.

COVID-19 in Northeast Brazil: achievements and limitations in the responses of the state governments. / COVID-19 no Nordeste brasileiro: sucessos e limitações nas respostas dos governos dos estados.

The COVID-19 pandemic has been most severe in the poorest regions of Brazil, such as the states of the Northeast Region. The lack of national policies for pandemic control forced state and municipal authorities to implement public health measures. The aim of this study is to show the effect of these measures on the epidemic. The highest incidence of COVID-19 among the nine states in the Northeast was recorded in Sergipe, Paraíba and Ceará. Piauí, Paraíba and Ceará were the states that most tested. Factors associated with transmission included the high proportion of people in informal work. States with international airports played an important role in the entry of the virus and the initial spread, especially Ceará. All states applied social distancing measures, banned public events and closed schools. The response was a significant increase in social distancing, especially in Ceará and Pernambuco, a decline in the reproduction rate (Rt), and a separation of the curve of observed cases versus expected cases if the non-pharmacological interventions had not been implemented in all states. Poverty, inequality, and the high rates of informal work provide clues to the intensity of COVID-19 in the region. On the other hand, the measures taken early by the governments mitigated the effects of the pandemic.

No Brasil, a pandemia da COVID-19 tem sido severa nos estados das regiões mais pobres, como o Nordeste. A falta de políticas nacionais para controle da pandemia levou as autoridades estaduais e municipais a implementarem medidas de saúde pública. O objetivo deste estudo é mostrar o efeito dessas medidas na epidemia. A maior incidência da COVID-19 entre os nove estados do Nordeste foi registrada em Sergipe, Paraíba e Ceará. O Piauí, a Paraíba e Ceará foram os que mais testaram. Muitos estados apresentavam alta proporção de pessoas em trabalho informal. Estados com aeroportos internacionais tiveram importante papel na entrada e disseminação inicial do vírus, em especial o Ceará. Todos os estados aplicaram medidas de distanciamento social, proibição de eventos públicos e fechamento de unidades de ensino. As respostas foram o aumento significativo de distanciamento social, em especial Ceará e Pernambuco, a queda do número de reprodução (Rt) e a separação da curva dos casos observados da curva dos casos esperados sem as intervenções não medicamentosas em todos os estados. A pobreza, a desigualdade e as altas taxas de trabalho informal fornecem pistas do porquê da intensidade da COVID-19 na região. Por outro lado, as medidas de mitigação tomadas precocemente pelos governantes amenizaram os efeitos da pandemia.

Social distancing measures to control the COVID-19 pandemic: potential impacts and challenges in Brazil. / Medidas de distanciamento social no controle da pandemia de COVID-19: potenciais impactos e desafios no Brasil.

The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged researchers and policy makers to identify public safety measures forpreventing the collapse of healthcare systems and reducingdeaths. This narrative review summarizes the available evidence on the impact of social distancing measures on the epidemic and discusses the implementation of these measures in Brazil. Articles on the effect of social distancing on COVID-19 were selected from the PubMed, medRXiv and bioRvix databases. Federal and state legislation was analyzed to summarize the strategies implemented in Brazil. Social distancing measures adopted by the population appear effective, particularly when implemented in conjunction with the isolation of cases and quarantining of contacts. Therefore, social distancing measures, and social protection policies to guarantee the sustainability of these measures, should be implemented. To control COVID-19 in Brazil, it is also crucial that epidemiological monitoring is strengthened at all three levels of the Brazilian National Health System (SUS). This includes evaluating and usingsupplementary indicators to monitor the progression of the pandemic and the effect of the control measures, increasing testing capacity, and making disaggregated notificationsand testing resultstransparentand broadly available.

A pandemia de COVID-19 tem desafiado pesquisadores e gestores a encontrar medidas de saúde pública que evitem o colapso dos sistemas de saúde e reduzam os óbitos. Esta revisão narrativa buscou sistematizar as evidências sobre o impacto das medidas de distanciamento social na epidemia de COVID-19 e discutir sua implementação no Brasil. Foram triados artigos sobre o efeito do distanciamento social na COVID-19 no PubMed, medRXiv e bioRvix, e analisados atos do poder público nos níveis federal e estadual para sumarizar as estratégias implementadas no Brasil. Os achados sugerem que o distanciamento social adotado por população é efetivo, especialmente quando combinado ao isolamento de casos e à quarentena dos contatos. Recomenda-se a implementação de medidas de distanciamento social e de políticas de proteção social para garantir a sustentabilidade dessas medidas. Para o controle da COVID-19 no Brasil, é imprescindível que essas medidas estejam aliadas ao fortalecimento do sistema de vigilância nos três níveis do SUS, que inclui a avaliação e uso de indicadores adicionais para monitorar a evolução da pandemia e o efeito das medidas de controle, a ampliação da capacidade de testagem, e divulgação ampla e transparente das notificações e de testagem desagregadas.

COVID-19 no Nordeste brasileiro: sucessos e limitações nas respostas dos governos dos estados / COVID-19 in Northeast Brazil: achievements and limitations in the responses of the state governments

Resumo No Brasil, a pandemia da COVID-19 tem sido severa nos estados das regiões mais pobres, como o Nordeste. A falta de políticas nacionais para controle da pandemia levou as autoridades estaduais e municipais a implementarem medidas de saúde pública. O objetivo deste estudo é mostrar o efeito dessas medidas na epidemia. A maior incidência da COVID-19 entre os nove estados do Nordeste foi registrada em Sergipe, Paraíba e Ceará. O Piauí, a Paraíba e Ceará foram os que mais testaram. Muitos estados apresentavam alta proporção de pessoas em trabalho informal. Estados com aeroportos internacionais tiveram importante papel na entrada e disseminação inicial do vírus, em especial o Ceará. Todos os estados aplicaram medidas de distanciamento social, proibição de eventos públicos e fechamento de unidades de ensino. As respostas foram o aumento significativo de distanciamento social, em especial Ceará e Pernambuco, a queda do número de reprodução (Rt) e a separação da curva dos casos observados da curva dos casos esperados sem as intervenções não medicamentosas em todos os estados. A pobreza, a desigualdade e as altas taxas de trabalho informal fornecem pistas do porquê da intensidade da COVID-19 na região. Por outro lado, as medidas de mitigação tomadas precocemente pelos governantes amenizaram os efeitos da pandemia.

Abstract The COVID-19 pandemic has been most severe in the poorest regions of Brazil, such as the states of the Northeast Region. The lack of national policies for pandemic control forced state and municipal authorities to implement public health measures. The aim of this study is to show the effect of these measures on the epidemic. The highest incidence of COVID-19 among the nine states in the Northeast was recorded in Sergipe, Paraíba and Ceará. Piauí, Paraíba and Ceará were the states that most tested. Factors associated with transmission included the high proportion of people in informal work. States with international airports played an important role in the entry of the virus and the initial spread, especially Ceará. All states applied social distancing measures, banned public events and closed schools. The response was a significant increase in social distancing, especially in Ceará and Pernambuco, a decline in the reproduction rate (Rt), and a separation of the curve of observed cases versus expected cases if the non-pharmacological interventions had not been implemented in all states. Poverty, inequality, and the high rates of informal work provide clues to the intensity of COVID-19 in the region. On the other hand, the measures taken early by the governments mitigated the effects of the pandemic.