Study shows important factors in combating smoking

The Quit Like Sweden event took place in Brasília, on the 10th of this month. International experts have come together in support of the fight against smoking, replicating Sweden's success, which reduced smoking to 5.3% of the population. Yet, Sweden is about to become the first officially smoke-free country. Check out what some experts say.

Deaths avoided

Suely Castro, founder of Quit Like Sweden, is Brazilian. During the event, Castro showed research demonstrating that, if Brazil reduces smoking using the same methods as Sweden, 1.36 million lives could be saved by 2060. Furthermore, in previous studies it was pointed out that three million Europeans could be alive. Also, in another study on low- and middle-income countries, she points out that Kazakhstan could avoid 165,000 deaths from smoking over the next 40 years. South Africa and Pakistan could save 320,000 and 1.2 million lives, respectively.

Furthermore, according to the studies highlighted, one of the factors that help in the fight against smoking is the early diagnosis and treatment of lung cancer. In addition to early diagnosis, another important factor is harm reduction, that is, minimizing the impact of the substance without stopping use altogether.

Quit Like Sweden supports harm reduction

One of the strategies adopted by Sweden was the introduction of electronic devices, such as vapes. The introduction of electronic devices works as a form of harm reduction, supported by Quit Like Sweden. The European Union has recognized these electronic devices as one of the ways to reduce smoking. Other measures are the use of Snus – powdered tobacco placed directly in the mouth – and nicotine pouch.

_{According to data from Vigitel, the total number of smokers in Brazil by 2021 was 9.1% (Photo: reproduction/Vigitel Brasil/Federal Government)}

Currently, in Brazil, the use of electronic smoking devices is prohibited. ANVISA will meet today (19) to discuss whether the ban will continue or not. It is possible to follow the meeting on the agency's social networks. The Ministry of Health supports ANVISA's ban decision. Remembering that even electronic cigarettes can also pose health risks.

Featured photo: Quit Like Sweden advocates harm reduction as a way to combat smoking (Reproduction/Peter Dazeley/Getty Images Embed)