Popular health agents in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic: the role of popular health education in building healthy and sustainable territories

This study analyzed experiences developed by popular health agents (AgPSs) during the Campanha Mãos Solidárias (Helping Hands Campaign) between 2020 and 2022 and their convergence towards the National Policy for Popular Health Education and concept of healthy and sustainable territories. We conducted a qualitative and analytical documental study using campaign social media, newspapers and academic works on the topic as sources of data. AgPSs foster public participation in health territories using strategies to mobilize the population around the right to health, health education, popular communication and health care. They identified and strengthened popular knowledge about territories by promoting intersectoral coordination across different areas, including health, food, employment and income, rights, communication and education. The study reveals the challenges in coordinating actions with the Brazilian National Health System (SUS) and the need to strengthen public policies related to the theme.

Keywords
Popular health education; Public participation; Health education; Health promotion; Covid-19 pandemic