Reports, excess risk and spatial distribution of domestic violence against women, Brazil, 2015-2020

To analyze reports, excess risk, and spatial distribution of domestic violence against women in Brazil between 2015 and 2020.

Descriptive cross-sectional study with data from the Notifiable Health Conditions Information System. We calculated violence reporting rates per 100,000 and excess risk by Brazilian states. The rates were presented in tables, according to variables of interest, and via choropleth maps.

We analyzed 495,820 reports. There was a positive percentage change (29.4%) in the rates in the total period and a negative change (-16.6%) between 2019 and 2020. The 12-14 years age group had the highest rates (110.39 in 2015 and 165.63 in 2020); White women, mixed race women, and women with 8 years of schooling or more had the highest proportions (40%, 41.1%, and 43.8%, respectively). The states of Acre, Mato Grosso do Sul, Paraná, Minas Gerais, Tocantins and Rio Grande do Sul recorded high rates and excess risk >1, that is, higher than the national average.

Violence showed significant variation during the study period, with an overall increase in rates and a decrease in 2020. Younger women had higher rates; those of White and mixed skin color and with higher education had higher proportions. In addition, some states had rates above the national average. These findings highlight differences in the distribution of domestic violence, reinforcing the need for approaches targeted at certain groups and locations, in addition to in-depth analyses and coordinated action to address this complex problem.