PROFILE, OCCURRENCE AND TEMPORAL TREND OF PHYSICAL AND SEXUAL VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN, IN PORTO NACIONAL-TO, 2013 TO 2022

Abstract

Introduction: This study investigates physical and sexual violence against women in the municipality of Porto Nacional-TO between 2013 and 2022, addressing epidemiological aspects and social determinants involved. Violence against women, especially in domestic contexts and intimate relationships, is a human rights violation and a public health issue, the consequences of which widely affect society. The analysis of this violence in the region aims to provide relevant data for public policies that seek to reduce such occurrences. Methodology: This is an ecological epidemiological study, using data from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) and obtained from DATASUS for all occurrences reported in Porto Nacional-TO. Cases of physical and sexual violence against females were included, and records with incomplete information were excluded. The analysis of incidence rates and trends was performed using the Stata®18 software, applying the Prais-Winsten method to estimate the annual percentage change and temporal trends of violence rates. Results: The analysis revealed a higher prevalence of physical violence in women aged 20 to 39 years and sexual violence in adolescents aged 10 to 19 years. Women who identified themselves as brown were the most affected in all forms of violence. Violence occurred predominantly in the domestic environment, and there was a significant increase in cases during the period of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a peak incidence of physical violence in 2020. The study also indicated that alcohol use was associated with a considerable portion of physical aggression. Discussion: The results confirm a growing trend of physical violence among young and adult women, highlighting the residence as the main place for these acts. Comparisons with other studies suggest that the characteristics observed in Porto Nacional are consistent with dynamics of violence found in other Brazilian regions, especially regarding the vulnerability of women in disadvantaged socioeconomic contexts. Conclusion: The high rates of physical and sexual violence, especially among young people and women of brown race, point to the need for public policies focused on prevention and care, especially in times of social crisis. It is essential to strengthen actions to monitor and combat gender violence to ensure greater safety and protection for women.