ADVOCACY AGENDA FOR PHYSICAL ACTIVITY IN THE BRAZILIAN UNIFIED HEALTH SYSTEM

Abstract

Introduction: In 2026, the National Health Promotion Policy marked its 20th anniversary. This milestone provides an opportunity to revisit the debate regarding its implementation and priority themes. Although advocacy is widely recognized as priority strattegy for health promotion, in the field of physical activity, it remains poorly structured and under-researched. Objetictive: This essay-style study aimed to present a proposed agenda for advocacy in physical activity, with an empais on the federal management of the Brazilian Unified Health System (SUS). Development: Based on the conception of physical activity and health promotion within the SUS, as well as a reflections on the commercial determinants of health and their implications for advpcacy in the field of physical activity, the following aspects were discussed: why advocacy should be strengthened; what agenda should be advocated; how it should be implemented; and who should participate in this process. Final considerations: Advocacy constitutes a strategic tool with the potential to mobilize actions aimed at consolidating physical activity within the SUS, both as an  equity-oriented public health policy and as a right of the Brazilian population. The establishment of a National Physical Activity Policy emerges as a priority item on this agenda.