Brazil smoking rates highest among Generation Z

A study conducted by the A. C. Camargo Cancer Center in partnership with Nexus reveals that 19% of Generation Z individuals in Brazil (aged 16 to 24) identify as active smokers of both conventional and electronic cigarettes. This figure exceeds the national average of 17% and is the highest among all age groups surveyed.

The research, which included over 2,000 participants across all 27 Brazilian states, also highlights significant involuntary exposure to smoke. Approximately 33% of Brazilians frequently live or work with smokers, a figure that rises to 37% among the 16-24 age demographic. In the South region, exposure reaches 41%.

Data indicates a correlation between smoking and other unhealthy lifestyle habits. Among smokers, 84% engage in up to four harmful behaviors, such as physical inactivity and the excessive consumption of ultra-processed foods. Notably, 63% of smokers describe their own health as “great,” a perception similar to the 61% reported by non-smokers.