The State of Acupuncture Education and Practice in Brazil

Abstract

Background:

Acupuncture has been integrated into Brazil’s Public Health System since 1988 and was recognized as a formal medical specialty in 1995. Since that time, the field has undergone significant developmental shifts regarding professional training and institutional recognition.

Objective:

This article provides an overview of the evolution of acupuncture education and clinical practice specifically for medical doctors in Brazil.

Results:

The evolution of training began with private and specialized courses in the 1960s and 1980s, eventually expanding to include hybrid models and short courses for public health physicians. Uniquely, Brazil has established a comprehensive medical residency program in acupuncture. This program encompasses 5760 hours of training over 2 years (with an optional third year for pain management), integrating both Traditional Chinese Medicine and Western medical approaches—a depth of training mirrored only by China. At the undergraduate level, integration into medical school curricula remains inconsistent; however, student-run “Acupuncture Leagues” have emerged to supplement education and foster deeper engagement.

Conclusions:

Brazil has made substantial progress in establishing high-level training standards for medical acupuncture. However, challenges remain, specifically regarding the need for broader integration into standard medical education and increased accessibility to training nationwide. Continued development is required to further enhance acupuncture’s role in Brazilian medical practice.