Health experts warn of e-cigarette risks amid rising smoking cessation demand in Brazil

Medical experts are warning that electronic cigarettes are not a safe alternative for smoking cessation due to the risk of Evali, a serious lung injury associated with vaping. A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine involving 1,139 Evali patients in the United States found that 2.7% were readmitted within four days of discharge, and seven died before being rehospitalized. Special attention is required for individuals with comorbidities such as heart disease, chronic lung disease, sleep apnea, and diabetes.

In Brazil, there has been a significant increase in the demand for smoking cessation treatment through the Unified Health System (SUS). Data from the Ministry of Health shows that the number of people seeking help at Basic Health Units rose from 350,000 in 2015 to over 2 million last year, representing a nearly 500% increase over a decade.

The SUS provides a clinical protocol established by the National Cancer Institute (Inca), which includes evaluating consumption patterns and mental health. Treatment often involves combined therapy, including nicotine patches, gum, lozenges, and the antidepressant bupropion, to help patients manage the chemical and emotional dependencies caused by nicotine.