SOCIODEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF WOMEN WHO SUFFERED GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN THE STATE OF AMAZONAS IN THE PERIOD PRE, INTRA AND POST COVID-19 PANDEMIC

Abstract

Introduction: Gender-based violence is a global public health problem and is directly associated with the concepts of social control and power relations between men and women culturally. In Brazil, the number of cases of violence against women has increased alarmingly in recent years, especially with social isolation recommendations during the COVID-19 pandemic. Objective: To characterize the sociodemographic profile of women who suffered gender-based violence in the state of Amazonas before, during, and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Method: Descriptive study with a quantitative approach. Results: Most incidents before, during, and after the pandemic in the state of Amazonas involved victims aged <20 years, with low income and low education levels. Physical violence was the most common, predominant in 9,559 cases (32.41%), followed by sexual violence (26.54%) and rape (21.65%). Most assaults are committed primarily by spouses (8.41% of cases), followed by strangers (7.49%), and by the victim's own father (6.81%). Conclusion: Based on this profile, it was possible to recognize that violence has lasting effects on women's health, impacting not only their physical health but also their mental, sexual, and reproductive health. Understanding the profile of victims and the different aspects associated with gender-based violence is of paramount importance when assisting victims and completing the mandatory reporting form, which generates data for the creation of new public policies.