Brazil mandates annual medical check-ups for women via SUS

Brazil has enacted Law No. 15.493, which mandates that the Unified Health System (SUS) provide a complete medical evaluation for all women at least once a year. The legislation, published in the Official Gazette, aims to expand preventive actions, monitoring, and awareness regarding female health.

The new regulations require the SUS to implement routine exams and screening procedures based on epidemiological criteria related to the most common diseases affecting women. These assessments must consider individual factors such as age, race, ethnicity, disability, socioeconomic status, and place of residence.

In addition to clinical exams, the law mandates public awareness campaigns involving lectures, symposia, and debates. The health system is tasked with providing early screening for conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, and dyslipidemia, as well as offering nutritional guidance, mental health information, and vaccination updates. The law also requires continuous training for healthcare professionals working in female health promotion and recovery. The new rules will take effect 180 days after publication.