BACKGROUND AND IMPLEMENTATION CHALLENGES: Since the 1980s, Brazil has implemented the National Tobacco Control Policy (PNCT) with notable success in reducing smoking prevalence. However, challenges such as emerging products, the sustainability of actions, and policy integration across states and municipalities persist. This project, conducted between 2020 and 2022 with funding from Bloomberg Philanthropies, aimed to strengthen the PNCT in five Brazilian states (Tocantins, Paraíba, Goiás, Paraná, and Rio de Janeiro), representing diverse regional contexts.
INTERVENTION OR RESPONSE: Activities included technical visits, the formation of state technical groups, and virtual workshops on topics such as funding sources and legislative partnerships. Questionnaires and SWOT-based inventories were applied to identify local challenges and opportunities. Regular meetings with state and municipal managers were held, and best practices were shared at national and international events.
RESULTS AND IMPACT: The project strengthened collaboration between states and national coordination, generating detailed diagnostics and sustainable action proposals. Outcomes included professional training, strengthened state tobacco control networks, and strategic alignment to promote stronger legislation. The model proved viable for national expansion and helped integrate tobacco control into local health agendas.
CONCLUSIONS: The project highlighted the importance of intersectoral partnerships and participatory methodologies to ensure the sustainability of the PNCT in Brazil. Expanding actions to other states is recommended, focusing on resource mobilization and strengthening regional networks to sustain and amplify the achieved progress.