The Brazilian Scientific Production about Male Cancer: State of the Art

Abstract

Introduction: Although it has similar incidence rates between men and women, studies show a higher mortality for the different types of cancer among men. However, it is observed a largest scientific production towards the understanding of the illness process of women and children with cancer at the expense of men with this disease. Objective: To identify and to analyze the Brazilian scientific production about male cancer, aiming to bring up gaps and dimensions discussed or privileged about this issue. Method: From the State of the Art perspective, consultations were undertaken in the SciELO, PePSIC and CAPES databases, without temporal cut, from the cancer, neoplasms and tumors descriptors. Articles that address the disease "cancer" and have the sample/population composed exclusively of men were considered. For data analysis, a characterization of both studies and authors selected was conducted. Results: Out of 16,972 publications found, only 543 attended to the selection criteria. It was found that the largest production was undertaken by men, medical graduates belonging to research groups of public universities located in southeastern Brazil. It was observed a greater emphasis of these studies in neoplasms of the prostate, penis and testicles. The need for increased investment in studies that consider the psychosocial aspects that underlie the disease and cancer treatment was also perceived. Conclusion: The results point to the incipient Brazilian scientific production regarding male cancer. It is necessary to invest in the production of scientific knowledge about the subject, thus contributing to the effectiveness of the Brazilian Comprehensive Healthcare Policy for Men.