The Landscape of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry in Brazil

Background: There is limited information regarding the number of child and adolescent psychiatrists and their distribution across Brazilian states. Objective: To determine the number of Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists (CAP) in Brazil, their distribution by state, and whether there are enough professionals in this field. Method: A cross-sectional study using secondary data available online. Statistical analysis was performed with BioEstat 5.0 statistic software. Results: There are 871 CAPs in Brazil, which are unevenly distributed across the states. This number is insufficient, necessitating a 2840% increase to meet the demand. Conclusion: In addition to the inadequate number of professionals, their distribution is unequal, with significant concentrations in state capitals and a few states. The number of CAP in Brazil is far below the recommended level, with poor geographic distribution.