[Regional Disparities in Non-Communicable Diseases in Chile: A Gap That Remains Unclosed]

This study evaluates regional disparities in access to treatment and preventive screenings for high-mortality non-communicable diseases (NCDs) -specifically cancer and diabetes- in Chile, using data from the 2022-2023 National Health, Sexuality, and Gender Survey (ENSSEX).

Four key indicators were analyzed: mammography (MAM), Pap smear (PAP), prostate-specific antigen test (PSA), and diabetes treatment (DIA). Disparities were assessed using both general and relative disparity indices (ID) to quantify regional inequalities.

The general disparity index (IDg) revealed substantial differences in access to preventive screenings, with regional gaps reaching up to 20% for PSA tests, mammograms, and Pap smears. In contrast, disparities in diabetes treatment access were notably smaller (<5%). Better performance was observed in the northern and southern macrozones, while regions such as Tarapacá, Maule, and Metropolitana showed significant lags.

The findings underscore persistent regional disparities in preventive healthcare services in Chile. Targeted decentralization policies and subnational prioritization are crucial to reducing these gaps. Addressing these disparities is essential for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 3.4 and lowering premature mortality from NCDs.