E agora, quem poderá nos defender?: a vigilância de violências no município do Rio de Janeiro

Abstract

Violence is a phenomenon rooted in complex social structures, standing out as one of the main challenges for global public health. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), violence accounts for approximately 2% of global deaths, significantly impacting the quality of life for millions of people. In Brazil, it ranks among the leading causes of death, particularly among young people and adults. Within this context, health surveillance emerges as a strategic tool for monitoring and controlling violence, guided by policies such as the National Policy for the Reduction of Morbidity and Mortality from Accidents and Violence (PNRMAV), which outlines preventive and follow-up measures. This study aims to characterize the violence surveillance system in the city of Rio de Janeiro, focusing on the notification process. Using a qualitative and descriptive approach, the study analyzed notification flows, management procedures, and discrepancies between the regulations of the Ministry of Health and local practices. The findings revealed that the notification process involves identifying signs by health professionals, detailed recording on specific forms, and data entry into the National System for Notifiable Diseases (SINAN). Cases are discussed in regional groups and used to plan preventive actions. Tools such as Monitor Carioca assist in tracking sexual violence against children and adolescents. However, the system faces challenges such as underreporting, overburdened health professionals, lack of standardized procedures, and difficulties in integrating data from various sources. Improving the system requires continuous professional training, standardization of notification tools, and strengthened coordination among management levels and intersectoral sectors, including health, justice, social assistance, and education. Furthermore, fostering community participation through councils and working groups is essential to align actions with local needs. It concludes that the violence surveillance system in Rio de Janeiro has made significant progress but still faces structural limitations that compromise its effectiveness. Investing in information technologies, integrating systems, and improving data collection and analysis processes are crucial steps to strengthen surveillance, support more assertive public policies, and promote population health.