Conceptual and historical characteristics of Integrated Programme on Endemic Diseases, National Council for Scientific and Technological Development, are reviewed. Proceedings and results of an exploratory assessment of its sixth biennial phase (PIDE VI) are presented and discussed. The scientific aspects investigated were activity, productivity and progress. Primary data were obtained from forms answered by 73,39% of the principal researchers of all 195 financed projects. Indicators were applied to volume, global costs and average project costs by area, besides distribuition by geographic regions, diseases and universities. High activity and productivity were observed, mainly on Chagas' Disease, Southeast region and five specific Brazilian Universities.