The Brazilian Ministry of Health reported a rise in overall tobacco use to 11.6% in 2023, driven by the rapid spread of electronic cigarettes among youth. This shift occurs as Brazil marks 30 years of its Anti-Smoking Law (Lei Antifumo), which successfully reduced traditional smoking from 35% to 9.3% but is now bypassed by smokeless nicotine devices.
The southern region of Brazil shows a 48% higher probability of vape consumption compared to the rest of the country. Paraná leads adult usage at 4.5%, a trend driven by contraband seized along the Paraguayan border. In Santa Catarina, school data reveals that 38.7% of students have experimented with vapes, rising to 43.7% in the Federal District (Brasília).
| Region / State | Youth Experimentation Rate | Adult Usage Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Federal District (DF) | 43.7% | - |
| Goiás | 39.2% | - |
| Santa Catarina (SC) | 38.7% | - |
| Paraná (PR) | - | 4.5% |
| National Average (Brazil) | 29.6% | - |
Although the National Health Surveillance Agency (Anvisa) banned electronic cigarettes in 2009, illicit sales thrive through social media, delivery apps, and parties. Flavored e-liquids mask health risks, attracting minors who perceive the vapor as safe.
To counter this trend, federal lawmakers are considering proposals to ban all smoking product sales to individuals born after 2009. Meanwhile, the public health system (SUS) faces mounting pressure. In Santa Catarina, over 21,000 individuals sought medical help to quit smoking, with 17,796 entering treatment programs.
