Brasília – The House of Representatives has passed Bill 265/2020, which amends Law No. 11,664/2008 to guarantee access to genetic tests for detecting hereditary cancer risk within Brazil’s Unified Health System (SUS).

Sponsored by former representatives Rejane Dias (PT-PI), Tereza Nelma (PSDB-AL), and Marina Santos (PL-PI), the proposal was approved in the form of a substitute amendment presented by Representative Jack Rocha (PT-ES) and endorsed in plenary by Representative Silvia Cristina (PP-RO), who served as rapporteur.

The text ensures that the SUS will offer risk assessment, genetic counseling, and testing for pathogenic variants associated with hereditary breast-cancer risk through public or accredited services. The Ministry of Health will define technical criteria, clinical guidelines, and care pathways, regulating timelines, screening modalities, surveillance, and cascade testing for family members when indicated.

The bill also requires that the processing of personal and genetic data comply with the General Data Protection Law ( LGPD) and extends the right to access these exams to beneficiaries of private health-insurance plans.

During the debate, legislators emphasized the measure’s potential to reduce mortality through early detection. Representative Silvia Cristina, a cancer survivor herself, described the initiative as a “commitment to life and prevention.”

Representatives Talíria Petrone (PSOL-RJ), Gisela Simona (União-MT), Erika Kokay (PT-DF), Laura Carneiro (PSD-RJ), Rodrigo Rollemberg (PSB-DF), Luiz Lima (Novo-RJ), and Geraldo Resende (PSDB-MS) all voiced support, citing the importance of early diagnosis, technological innovation, and equity in women’s health.

The proposal will now proceed to the Federal Senate for review.

Source: NK Consultores

Want to explore this and other key issues in Brazil’s health system?
Contact us at pharmabrnews@gmail.com