Objective. To summarize the epidemiological situation of tuberculosis (TB) in Brazil, especially as it relates to the evolution of the health sector in recent decades, the process of health sector reform, and current proposals of the Brazilian Ministry of Health. Methods. A review was conducted of data from the Ministry of Health of Brazil on tuberculosis in the country over the last 20 years, as well as of the history of changes in the health sector. Results. There have been major changes in the epidemiological situation of TB and also in the structure of the health system in Brazil. Conclusions. The overall prospects are promising for Brazil's National Plan for Tuberculosis Control.