Epidemiology of HIV/AIDS in women of childbearing age in Brazil: trends and challenges over a decade (2012-2022)

Abstract

Introduction: The human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) causes immunosuppression, which facilitates the emergence of opportunistic diseases and characterizes acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS). The HIV/AIDS epidemic began in Brazil in the 1980s, initially affecting injection drug users, sex workers, homosexuals, and hemophiliacs—groups that were considered at risk at the time. Today, however, the epidemic is growing among women of reproductive age (WRA). Objective: To analyze the prevalence of WRA living with HIV and AIDS in Brazil from 2012 to 2022. Methodology: This ecological study, conducted at an aggregate level, utilized data collected from 2012 to 2022 from the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN), the National Lymphocyte Count Laboratory Examination Control System (SISCEL), the Mortality Information System (SIM), and the Pharmaceutical Logistic Control System (SICLOM) of the Brazilian Ministry of Health. Results: There was a peak in notifications in 2012, followed by a decline in subsequent years, with the Southeast region reporting the highest number of notifications. The data indicated a higher prevalence among brown-skinned women aged between 35 and 49 years. Until 2016, these cases were predominantly among women with an education level ranging from incomplete 5th to 8th grades; however, from 2017 onward, the majority had completed high school. Conclusion: Cases were predominantly observed among brown-skinned WRA with low educational attainment, reflecting social inequalities and an increased risk of HIV exposure in vulnerable groups. This underscores the need for inclusive policies, continuous monitoring, and targeted interventions to mitigate vertical transmission.