Introduction: The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, profoundly impacted global public health, disrupting healthcare systems and exacerbating preexisting inequalities, particularly in Brazil. One major consequence was the decline in screening and diagnostic procedures for diseases such as cancer, compromising incidence rates in several countries. Thus, epidemiological studies on this topic in the pandemic context are essential, as they reveal the vulnerability of public healthcare services and highlight regional disparities in access to diagnosis. Objectives: To analyze and describe the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on cancer diagnoses in Brazil between 2019 and 2022. Methods: This descriptive, retrospective, and quantitative study used data from the Oncology Panel, available through the Informatics Department of the Brazilian Unified Health System (DATASUS). Cancer diagnoses from 2019 to 2022 were analyzed, stratified by region, age group, therapeutic modality, and type of diagnosis. Statistical analysis was performed in Microsoft Excel version 365, with annual percentage variation calculations to assess pandemic-related trends. Results: A total of 2,278,350 cancer diagnoses were recorded in Brazil. From 2019 to 2020, a 9.7% decrease occurred (from 564,154 to 509,196 cases), followed by a 24% recovery in 2022 (633,142 cases). Regional analysis showed that the Southeast and South accounted for 67% of diagnoses (1.54 million), while the North and Northeast, home to nearly 40% of the population, accounted for only 23% (613,106 cases). In 2020, the Northeast saw a 16.6% decrease in diagnoses (from 134,607 to 112,294), while the North showed apparent stability likely due to chronic underreporting. Regarding treatment access, the Southeast performed 42.5% of chemotherapy sessions (218,101 out of 513,653) and 44% of radiotherapy procedures (87,351 out of 198,657). In contrast, the North performed only 4.6% and 4.9% of these treatments, respectively. Conclusion: There was an initial sharp decline in diagnoses, followed by gradual recovery, reflecting reduced pressure on the health system and the resumption of services post-crisis. Regional disparities in diagnosis and treatment access worsened, especially in the North and Northeast, which had higher proportions of malignant neoplasms, lower therapeutic coverage, and potential underdiagnosis, regions historically neglected. These findings underscore the urgent need for public policies aimed not only at equalizing cancer screening and access to care, particularly in underserved areas, but also at addressing the structural weaknesses that rendered the healthcare system unprepared for such a crisis.
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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