Evidence-informed policy for monitoring SDG 3 in the Legal Amazon region: A rapid review

To systematically identify and critically assess indicators used globally and in Brazil to monitor health outcomes related to Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 3, with an emphasis on identifying those most suitable for the Legal Amazon region.

This rapid review examined global initiatives to achieve SDG 3 and their applicability to the Legal Amazon. Systematic reviews and overviews were included, with no language restrictions, considering studies published from 2015 onwards. Searches were conducted across several databases using both controlled vocabulary and free-text terms. Study selection, data extraction, and quality assessment followed standardized procedures, with independent reviewers ensuring rigor and resolving discrepancies through consensus.

The identified indicators covered health coverage, quality of care, environmental health, epidemiology, financial aspects, and governance, although none provided calculation formulas. Studies highlighted positive impacts of health service integration and conditional cash transfer programs, improving treatment adherence, disease detection, and child health outcomes. None of the included articles described specific indicators tailored to the Amazon region.

The Legal Amazon faces challenges such as limited healthcare access and threats from deforestation and illegal mining. This review found no systematic reviews addressing these needs, making the findings suggestive rather than definitive. Despite this gap, preliminary efforts made it possible to propose indicators tailored to the region, covering areas such as Indigenous health, environmental risks, and healthcare accessibility. These indicators require validation by regional stakeholders to ensure their relevance and effectiveness in policy development.