A busca dos homens pela assistência à saúde nos serviços de saúde pública do brasil: uma revisão bibliográfica.

Abstract

Introduction: Men’s health requires greater attention and in-depth investigation, as public health policies have historically focused more on maternal and child health, leaving men in a secondary position. To address this disparity, the National Policy for Comprehensive Men's Health Care (PNAISH), established in 2008, aims to implement specific actions targeted at the male population, taking into account their sociocultural contexts and strengthening the care networks within the Unified Health System (SUS). Within the Family Health Strategy (FHS), nurses play a crucial role in promoting health and preventing diseases among men. However, challenges such as limited dissemination of the PNAISH and the lack of self-care practices are evident. Statistics reveal that men, on average, live 7.2 years less than women and often seek medical assistance at advanced stages of illnesses, frequently prompted by family members. Conditions such as prostate cancer and cardiovascular diseases are among the leading causes of male mortality, highlighting the need for strategies and campaigns to encourage early access to healthcare services. Research on this topic not only enhances men’s health outcomes but also benefits institutions and nursing teams by fostering a more inclusive and preventive approach. Objective: To investigate the factors influencing men’s engagement with public health services in Brazil. Material and Method: This study is a bibliographic review, conducted through electronic searches in the databases Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO) and Virtual Health Library (BVS), which integrate sources such as the Latin American and Caribbean Health Sciences Literature (LILACS), Nursing Database (BDENF), and Medical Literature Analysis and Retrieval System Online (MEDLINE). The following descriptors were used: "Men’s Health," "Primary Care," and "Public Health Policies." The research included publications in English and Portuguese from the last five years (2019 to 2024). Results and Discussion: Seven articles met the study's eligibility criteria. Of these, 57.14% utilised qualitative methodologies. Men’s utilisation of healthcare services is influenced by cultural, structural, and organisational barriers, including toxic masculinity, which associates self-care with weakness, as well as logistical challenges such as long waiting times and work schedule conflicts. The PNAISH seeks to counteract this scenario by promoting initiatives that prioritise preventive care and foster men’s engagement with health services. Conclusion: The nursing team’s role is vital in fostering welcoming environments, providing health education, and encouraging men’s self-care practices, particularly within Primary Care, thereby contributing to a more accessible and efficient care model. Descriptors: Men's Health; Primary Care; and Public Health Policies.