Indicadores de desempenho: pré-natal e pré-natal odontológico e sua relação com determinantes socioeconômicos na região norte do Brasil

Abstract

This study aimed to evaluate the performance indicators of prenatal care and prenatal dental care and their correlation with socioeconomic determinants in the states of the Northern region of Brazil from 2022 to 2024. This is a quantitative, descriptive, and analytical study based on secondary data obtained from official health information systems and socioeconomic indicators provided by governmental sources. Indicators related to the coverage of medical and dental prenatal consultations were analyzed, as well as socioeconomic variables such as income inequality, social vulnerability, educational level, and demographic conditions of the states in the region. The results showed that, although some states demonstrated improvements in indicator performance—especially in the number of prenatal consultations—significant differences persist among states, highlighting substantial internal inequalities. The correlation analysis between socioeconomic determinants and medical and dental prenatal care revealed that income inequality and unemployment are associated with poorer performance in the evaluated indicators. In 2022, the Gini Index showed a statistically significant and inverse correlation with prenatal care coverage in the first and second four-month periods (r = –0.736; p = 0.046; r = – 0.796; p = 0.032). Regarding prenatal dental care, a statistically significant and inverse correlation was observed with the unemployment rate across all three four-month periods. In 2023, a statistically significant and inverse correlation was also identified between prenatal dental care coverage in the third four-month period (r = –0.842; p = 0.017) and the unemployment rate. It is concluded that, to achieve comprehensive and equitable prenatal care in the Northern region, it is essential to strengthen the organization of Primary Health Care, expand access to dental care, and promote intersectoral policies that reduce social inequalities. The study enhances the understanding of the factors that influence maternal health in the region and underscores the importance of strategies capable of integrating health actions, territorial conditions, and the reduction of social disparities.