Brazil: Health Ministry Launches Gambling Disorder Network With Sírio-Libanês
Brazil.– February 12, 2026 – www.zonadeazar.com Brazil’s Ministry of Health has partnered with Hospital Sírio-Libanês to establish a specialised care network for individuals affected by gambling disorder. The initiative strengthens the country’s public health response to betting-related mental health challenges within the framework of the Unified Health System (SUS).
Overview
The programme aims to create a structured national support network dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis and treatment of gambling disorder. The project will integrate specialised services into Brazil’s public health infrastructure, combining in-person and telehealth assistance.
The initiative reflects a broader institutional effort to address the social and psychological impacts associated with the rapid expansion of the regulated betting market in Brazil.
Details / Context
The partnership will operate within the SUS framework, offering structured mental health support through coordinated services connected to Brazil’s Psychosocial Care Network. The model includes clinical assessments, therapeutic support and referral pathways for more complex cases.
Telemedicine will play a central role in expanding access, particularly in regions with limited specialised mental health resources. The objective is to provide accessible, evidence-based treatment while strengthening public awareness and prevention mechanisms.
The move follows a series of federal actions aimed at balancing market regulation with responsible gaming policies and harm-reduction strategies.
Specific Aspects
From a public health perspective, the initiative formally recognises gambling disorder as a mental health issue requiring structured intervention. The integration with established healthcare institutions such as Hospital Sírio-Libanês reinforces technical credibility and clinical standards.
Institutionally, the measure aligns regulatory oversight of betting with parallel investments in social protection and mental health support.
Economically and socially, the programme aims to mitigate the broader consequences of problematic gambling, including financial distress, family instability and emotional wellbeing.
Future Outlook
The network is expected to expand throughout 2026, strengthening coordination between primary care units, psychosocial centres and specialised hospitals.
Brazil’s approach may serve as a reference model for other jurisdictions seeking to combine betting regulation with structured public health responses to gambling-related harm.
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