Brazil Launches Major Health Initiatives Amid Rising Chronic Disease and Maternal Health Challenges

Brazil faces a sharp increase in chronic diseases, with diabetes cases among adults surging by 135% from 2006 to 2024, according to the Vigitel 2025 survey released by the Ministry of Health. Alongside this, hypertension increased by 31%, obesity by 118%, and overweight prevalence by 47%, signaling a growing public health challenge. In response, Health Minister Alexandre Padilha launched the Viva Mais Brasil initiative, backed by a R$ 340 million investment focused on promoting physical activity and preventing chronic diseases. The initiative will revitalize the Academia da Saúde program, expanding health academies linked to reduced medication use and improving quality of life. The program emphasizes active lifestyles, healthy eating, and integrating health practices, supported by 15 new quality indicators designed to strengthen Primary Health Care.

Simultaneously, legislative progress was made with the Câmara dos Deputados approving the creation of the Mãe Brasil program, aimed at reducing maternal and neonatal mortality among vulnerable women. The bill emphasizes support for socioeconomically disadvantaged and historically excluded groups by improving prenatal and postpartum care, transportation assistance, and educational support. Rapporteur Ana Paula Lima highlighted that 92% of maternal deaths could be prevented with adequate care, emphasizing early risk identification and management of hypertension and infections during pregnancy. Implementation will involve coordination among federal, state, and municipal authorities, with the executive responsible for logistical support measures.

Additional measures include a planned R$ 103 million investment to build a new maternity unit in Japeri, Rio de Janeiro, enhancing maternal and child health infrastructure. The Ministry has committed R$ 1.5 billion for hypertension and diabetes control in 2026, and is pursuing increased funding support for municipalities that improve care quality. However, Vigitel also revealed concerning behavioral trends, such as declining physical commuting and prevalent sleep issues affecting over 20% of adults.

These initiatives signal Brazil's comprehensive approach to tackling rising chronic disease rates and improving maternal health care access and outcomes, combining government investment, legislative action, and community health programs to promote healthier lives nationwide.