Analysis of sexual violence against children and adolescents in the Southern region of Brazil (2017-2022): an ecological study

The present study aimed to analyze the spatial distribution of sexual violence against children and adolescents in the Southern region of Brazil, considering differences between border and non-border municipalities and the pre- and post-COVID-19 pandemic periods. This is an ecological study, with spatial analysis of cases registered in the Notifiable Diseases Information System (SINAN) from January 2017 to December 2022. A total of 39,751 cases were identified, showing an upward trend, with a temporary interruption in 2020, the first year of the pandemic, and a resumption in subsequent years. Paraná reported the highest number of records, followed by Rio Grande do Sul and Santa Catarina. The analysis by sex indicated a higher number of cases among females when compared to males. It was found that municipalities located in border regions had higher average rates. No significant differences were found between the pre- and post-pandemic periods in terms of temporal averages; however, the spatial characteristics showed significant variations between border and non-border regions. The results reinforce the urgency of effective and targeted public policies for the protection of childhood and adolescence.

Key words:
Sexual violence; Child sexual abuse; Abuse notification; Spatial analysis