Alerj hosts lung health awareness event targeting vape use

The Medical Department of the Legislative Assembly of the State of Rio de Janeiro (Alerj) is hosting an educational event focused on lung health and the risks associated with electronic cigarettes, commonly known as vapes. Held in support of the ‘Agosto Branco’ campaign, the initiative aims to raise awareness about tobacco prevention, early lung cancer diagnosis, and the availability of free services through the Unified Health System (SUS).

The campaign specifically targets the rising popularity of vapes among adolescents and young adults, warning that these devices pose significant health risks despite their variety of flavors and appearances. Specialists will discuss smoking cessation strategies and pulmonary care.

According to projections from the National Cancer Institute (Inca), Brazil is expected to see 35,380 new cases of lung cancer, a disease that remains a leading cause of cancer deaths in the country with over 31,000 annual fatalities.