Brazil Youth Smoking Rates Highest Among 16-24 Age Group
A nationwide study by the AC Camargo Cancer Center and research firm Nexus has revealed that young Brazilians aged 16 to 24 smoke at higher rates than any other age group. The data shows that 19% of this demographic actively smoke traditional or electronic cigarettes, exceeding the national average of 17%.
In contrast, the smoking rate is lowest among adults aged 25 to 40, at 15%. Older demographics show slightly higher rates, with 16% of those aged 60 and over, and 17% of those aged 41 to 59 reporting as active smokers.
Early Exposure Drives Nicotine Addiction
Dr. Elano Freitas, head of the Lung and Thoracic Tumor Reference Center at AC Camargo, warned that the high smoking rate among youth requires immediate attention. The study indicates that the average age of first tobacco exposure is 16.
“Adolescents and young adults are particularly susceptible to addiction, and once they start, they are at high risk of being unable to stop,” Dr. Freitas emphasized, adding that all age groups must remain cautious.
| Demographic Group | Subcategory | Smoking Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 16–24 years old | 19% |
| Region | South Region | 22% |
| Education | Primary Education Only | 21% |
| Income | Below Minimum Wage | 19% |
Socioeconomic Factors and Lifestyle Habits
Smoking behavior in Brazil correlates with geographic and socioeconomic factors. The South region leads the nation with a 22% smoking rate, followed by the Southeast at 19%. The Northeast, North, and Midwest regions all report lower rates at 13%.
The study also revealed a link between smoking and other health-risk behaviors. Eighty-four percent of smokers admit to maintaining up to four unhealthy habits, mainly lack of exercise and high consumption of ultra-processed foods. Conversely, former smokers show a tendency toward lifestyle restructuring, with 44% reporting only one remaining bad habit.
Despite these risks, 63% of active smokers rate their health as “good” or “very good.” This self-assessment is slightly higher than the 61% reported by non-smokers, indicating a gap between perceived health and actual risk.
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