Quit Smoking Helpline in Brazil

Frequently asked questions

Is there a free quit-smoking helpline in Brazil?

Yes. Disque Saúde 136, run by the Ministério da Saúde, is a free national line for health information and referral, including support for people who want to quit smoking. Operators can direct you to the nearest UBS that runs the PNCT cessation programme in your municipality.

Source: Anvisa / Ministério da Saúde — Disque Saúde 136 (OuvSUS) , Governo Federal — SUS oferece tratamento gratuito para quem quer parar de fumar

Is help to quit smoking free in Brazil?

Yes. The SUS provides smoking-cessation treatment free of charge through UBS health centres under the Programa Nacional de Controle do Tabagismo. This typically includes cognitive-behavioural therapy in individual or group sessions and, where clinically appropriate, free medication.

Source: INCA — Programa Nacional de Controle do Tabagismo , Governo Federal — SUS oferece tratamento gratuito para quem quer parar de fumar

When can I call Disque Saúde 136 and how do I access UBS care?

Disque Saúde 136 has live operators typically Monday to Friday from 8:00 to 20:00 and Saturdays from 8:00 to 18:00, with recorded information outside those hours. UBS health centres set their own opening times locally; you can walk in or contact the unit nearest to you to enrol in the cessation programme, and no private insurance is needed.

Source: Anvisa / Ministério da Saúde — Disque Saúde 136 (OuvSUS) , Governo Federal — SUS oferece tratamento gratuito para quem quer parar de fumar

What language is supported?

Services are provided in Portuguese, the official language of Brazil. SUS units in larger cities and border regions may be able to arrange interpretation for migrants on request; mention this when you enrol at the UBS.

Source: INCA — Programa Nacional de Controle do Tabagismo

Does SUS cover quit-smoking medication?

Yes. As part of the PNCT, SUS provides nicotine replacement therapy (patches, gum and lozenges) and bupropion free of charge when prescribed in the programme. Varenicline tartrate is also part of the cessation pharmacotherapy menu and is provided under SUS protocols when clinically indicated.

Source: INCA — Programa Nacional de Controle do Tabagismo , Governo Federal — SUS oferece tratamento gratuito para quem quer parar de fumar