Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic significantly disrupted global healthcare systems, resulting in delays in cancer diagnoses and treatments. In Brazil, a 28% reduction in cancer-related surgical hospitalizations was observed between March and July 2020 compared to the same period in 2019. Given that gastric cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related mortality in Brazil, assessing the pandemic's impact on its treatment is crucial. Objectives: To evaluate the annual frequency of treatments for stomach neoplasms in the state of Pará between January 2019 and December 2023, with the aim of identifying potential variations associated with the COVID-19 pandemic. Methods: This is a descriptive, cross-sectional and quantitative epidemiological study based on secondary data extracted from the Department of Informatics of the SUS (DATASUS). The study focused on the number of treatments for stomach neoplasms performed in the state of Pará between January 2019 and December 2023. Data were collected by "month/year of treatment" and aggregated annually to assess trends over the five-year period. A time series analysis was performed to evaluate treatment volume variations, with percentage changes and the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) calculated to estimate annual fluctuates. Statistical processing and data organization were conducted using Microsoft Excel 2019, which also facilitated trend visualization through graphs. Results: A total of 873 stomach neoplasm treatments were recorded in the state of Pará between January 2019 and December 2023. In 2019, 174 treatments were registered, which decreased to 149 in 2020, representing a 14.5% reduction likely associated with the initial impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, treatments increased to 181, marking a 22% rise compared to 2020. The upward trend continued in 2022, reaching 186 treatments (2.8% increase from 2021), before a slight decline in 2023 to 183 treatments (1.6% decrease compared to 2022). Overall, treatment volumes in 2023 remained 5.2% higher than the pre-pandemic levels of 2019, indicating a gradual recovery of oncological care services. Conclusion: Therefore, this study demonstrates that the COVID-19 pandemic significantly impacted the treatment of stomach cancer cases. In 2020, the initial surge of COVID-19 cases led to a 14.5% reduction in the treatments compared to 2019, likely due to reduced diagnostic activity and limited healthcare access. This decline may have resulted from decreased demand of non-COVID related medical evaluations, leading to underdiagnosis and delayed treatment initiation. Starting in 2021, a gradual recovery was observed, coinciding with the implementation of enhanced structured public health measures, improved clinical management of COVID-19, and the nationwide vaccination rollout. These factors appear to have restored public confidence in seeking medical care, enabling treatment numbers in 2021–2023 to approach or slightly surpass pre-pandemic levels.
It is with great enthusiasm that we present the Annals of the Oncology International Symposium 2025, an event that continues to solidify its significance in the oncology landscape of northern Brazil. Held in Belém, Pará, Oncology 2025 centered around the theme "The cancer control challenge: better knowing it to best facing it," dedicating itself to exploring the latest frontiers in cancer treatment and prevention.
This year, the symposium provided a deep dive into the essential role of knowledge in the fight against cancer, presenting new perspectives and scientific advancements across various areas of oncology. Renowned global experts gathered to share their most recent research and innovative approaches, offering participants a comprehensive view of the challenges faced by healthcare professionals and patients worldwide.
Presentations and discussions during the event focused on critical topics such as the use of new technologies, advancements in personalized therapies, and more effective prevention strategies. Additionally, particular attention was given to the unique challenges faced by the Amazon region, with efforts aimed at developing region-specific solutions to meet local needs.
Beyond being a high-caliber academic event, Oncology 2025 stood out as a moment for integration and professional networking, with the warm hospitality of the city of Belém offering participants a unique experience. This event became a platform for exchanging ideas, where science, culture, and humanity came together in pursuit of a common goal: to improve cancer control both in Brazil and globally.
This collection of abstracts and articles presented during the event reflects the ongoing dedication to research and the development of innovative solutions, highlighting the importance of collaboration and shared knowledge in the fight against cancer.
General Submission Guidelines:
The presenting author, who does not have to be the first author, must be registered for Oncology 2025.
Each abstract may have up to 10 authors, including the main author and co-authors.
Only original, unpublished work will be accepted.
Submissions must be related to oncology. However, project descriptions, work proposals, experience reports, and literature reviews will not be considered.
Clinical case reports are allowed, provided the abstract addresses scientific questions, details clinical observations, and includes primary scientific data.
The abstract must be written in English, but presentations may be given in Portuguese.
Abstracts must be between 300 and 500 words.
Comissão Organizadora
Comissão Científica
See Annals of Oncology 2023 at:
https://www.even3.com.br/anais/oncology-2023-international-symposium/
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