Throughout much of the 20th century, smoking was widely accepted and promoted in Brazil. Advertising campaigns portrayed cigarettes as symbols of success and sophistication, resulting in prevalent use in social settings, including around children. However, significant changes began in 1986 when Brazil implemented comprehensive tobacco control policies responding to the mounting health evidence against smoking.

Epidemiological data underscores this transition: a study from the World Health Organization published in 2007 highlighted that in 1989, 34.8% of the adult Brazilian population identified as smokers. Since that notable year, smoking prevalence has been consistently declining annually, establishing Brazil as a benchmark for international tobacco control policies. With the downward trend having persisted, concerns have emerged regarding the velocity of this decrease, especially in recent times.

A recent study published in December 2025 in the journal Ciência & Saúde Coletiva indicates that while the overall decline in smoking rates continues, the pace has significantly slowed. This deceleration raises alarms about the achievement of Brazil's tobacco control target by 2030, aiming for a further reduction in smoking prevalence. Continued efforts and possibly new strategies will be necessary to sustain progress and meet health objectives well into the next decade.