The PNS is considered the largest household health survey in Brazil

On Monday (4), the IBGE began the second round of tests for the National Survey of Health (PNS) 2026. The pilot study is being carried out in the states of Rio de Janeiro and Piauí and its main objective is to evaluate the field logistics of the survey, a fundamental step to ensure the quality of data collection throughout the country.

The president of the IBGE, Marcio Pochmann, highlights that “this week's PNS tests go beyond figures and percentages, paving the way to expose the reality of deep Brazil, which insists on existing beyond traditional statistics.”

The IBGE Health Surveys Manager, Marina Águas, highlights that “this pilot is essential to test the PNS data collection logistics in all its stages, especially the collection of biomarkers,” a new feature in this edition.

In addition to the interviews, the 2026 survey will include the measurement of anthropometric measurements, such as weight, height and blood pressure, in addition to the collection of biological material (blood and urine).

In regard to blood, indicators such as blood count, glycated hemoglobin, cholesterol (total, HDL and LDL), creatinine, uric acid and IgG serology for chikungunya will be analyzed. In urine, sodium, potassium and creatinine will be evaluated. According to the IBGE Director of Surveys, Gustavo Junger, “the introduction of the collection of these biomarkers undoubtedly represents a challenge, which will require good communication with society and the reinforcement of the citizen role in responding to the IBGE.”

Blood and urine collection will be carried out at the resident's home, on a previously scheduled date and time, by a professional from the survey partner laboratory, always with the presence of an IBGE representative. All procedures will follow strict safety protocols, using disposable and single-use materials. Test results will be made available to residents within 20 days.

The result of a partnership between the IBGE and the Ministry of Health (MS), the survey is considered by experts to be the largest household health survey in Brazil.

The PNS seeks to paint a broad picture of the health conditions of the Brazilian population and access to health professionals and services. The study involves themes such as health conditions — including chronic diseases, accidents and violence —, lifestyles, worker health, women's health, oral health, ownership of health insurance plan and sexual activity, in addition to information on sexual orientation and gender identity.

Using the PNS, it is possible, for example, to produce information on chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs), as well as risk and health protection factors. The Manager of Special Studies and Surveys at the IBGE, Maria Lúcia Vieira, highlights that this reach contributes to State planning within the scope of the SUS: “The National Survey of Health is fundamental to understanding the real health conditions of the Brazilian population and guiding more effective public policies.”

In 2026, the PNS reaches its third edition, with new data collection effectively scheduled to begin in July this year.

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