Brazil expands public health services for smoking cessation

Public health initiatives to combat smoking are expanding in Brazil. In São Paulo, the municipal health network reported a 257% increase in tobacco user services, rising from 4,262 in 2021 to 15,220 in 2025. During the first half of 2026 alone, 11,206 services were recorded. These efforts follow guidelines from the National Tobacco Control Program and the Unified Health System (SUS).

In the municipality of Socorro, the Municipal Smoking Combat Group provides multidisciplinary support, including clinical evaluation and cognitive-behavioral therapy. The program integrates various health sectors, such as oral health and physical education, to assist patients in managing anxiety and cardiovascular health during cessation. A new group session is scheduled for late October 2026, with registrations open at local health units.

The World Health Organization classifies smoking as an epidemic, noting it causes over 8 million deaths annually, including 1.2 million from passive smoke exposure. While smoking rates in Brazil have seen declines, recent trends show an increase due to the use of electronic cigarettes.