Use of COVID-19 Detection Tests in the Mexican Population from 2020-2022: Frequency and Distribution.

OBJECTIVE

Analyze the frequency and distribution of COVID-19 diagnostic testing (RT-PCR and Ag-RDT) in Mexico during 2020-2022, and identify the sociodemographic and regional factors associated with their use.

METHODS

Ecological and cross-sectional study using secondary data from the National Epidemiological Surveillance System for Respiratory Diseases (SISVER). Approximately 15 million tests performed in public and private institutions between June 2020 and April 2022 were analyzed at individual and municipal levels to describe distribution by sex, age, social security coverage, and regional marginalization.

RESULTS

Ag-RDT was the most frequently used test nationwide, with testing concentrated in Mexico City and other economically developed regions, while marginalized and predominantly indigenous areas showed the lowest testing rates.

CONCLUSION

Significant inequalities were found in access to COVID-19 testing in Mexico, highlighting the influence of socioeconomic and territorial disparities and the need for equity-oriented public health and nursing strategies.