Brazil's IBGE begins 2026 National Health Survey data collection
The Brazilian Institute of Geography and Statistics (IBGE), in partnership with the Ministry of Health, has started fieldwork for the third edition of the National Health Survey (PNS 2026). Up to 30 November, about 1,800 interviewers will visit roughly 140,000 households across all Brazilian states, gathering information on health conditions, lifestyle habits, use of health services and occurrence of chronic diseases.
The 2026 survey adds a biomarker component: between July and October, 15,000‑20,000 residents aged 35 years or older in capital cities and metropolitan areas will be invited to provide free blood and urine samples. Tests will include complete blood count, lipid profile, glycated hemoglobin, creatinine, uric acid, electrolytes, Chikungunya serology and screening for heavy metals such as lead and mercury. A randomly selected individual aged 15 or older in each household will also undergo a personal interview and physical measurements (blood pressure, weight, height). The data will be used to monitor public‑health policies, plan actions of the Unified Health System (SUS), support the private health sector and track national and international health targets, with a focus on reducing inequalities. All responses are confidential and respondents are urged to cooperate.