Brazil Ministry of Health launches campaign to combat rising smoking rates

Brazil's Ministry of Health has launched the “Conte o que o cigarro não mostra” campaign, inviting smokers, former smokers, and families to share personal experiences regarding the impact of tobacco on daily life and health. These testimonials aim to inform the development of new warning images and messages for cigarette packaging and to refine public health policies.

This initiative comes amid data showing a reversal in smoking trends; after nearly 20 years of decline, the number of smokers in Brazil has begun to rise again. In 2024, approximately 11.7% of the adult population were smokers, according to Vigitel data.

Local health authorities are also responding to the issue. In Divinópolis, the municipal network has expanded support groups to assist with nicotine dependence and behavioral changes. In Maceió, health professionals are participating in discussions to strengthen the Tobacco Control Program through multidisciplinary care. Medical experts emphasize that while some lung damage may be irreversible, quitting smoking significantly reduces the risk of lung cancer and improves respiratory function over time.