BACKGROUND: Noncommunicable diseases, like tobacco use, are spread via commercial practices by multinational corporations. The tobacco industry (TI) focuses on attracting young consumers to sustain its market, as tobacco-related deaths reach 174,000 annually in Brazil. Despite strict advertising regulations, TI uses flavoring products, attractive packaging, and point-of-sale (POS) displays near schools to target minors. Data from 2019 (National School Health Survey) revealed that 22.6% of students have tried smoking, and accessibility remains high, with seven in ten minors successfully purchasing cigarettes. This study aimed to map the density of tobacco product availability near public schools in five Brazilian cities and examine promotional and sales strategies used by TI and retailers.
METHODS: This observational study explored POS located within 300 meters of five public schools in urban centers of one capital in each Brazilian region. Researchers georeferenced retail locations, took photographic records, and completed questionnaires to catalog POS features, promotional practices, and compliance with regulations. POS included kiosks, convenience stores, bars, bakeries, and supermarkets. Data collection took place in 2023, and findings were uploaded to an online database for geospatial and qualitative analysis.
RESULTS: Out of 170 POS surveyed, nearly half (48.2%) sold tobacco products, with the highest rates observed in Belo Horizonte (29.2%) and Curitiba (26.8%). Newspaper stands were the most frequent retailers (35.4%), followed by bakeries (17.1%). Most POS (87%) engaged in illegal single-cigarette sales, while displays often used bright visuals and obscured health warnings. Price lists were widely used as advertising, featuring vibrant colors and prominent placement in the POS to attract attention. Illicit products, such as electronic cigarettes and contraband packs, were also found.
CONCLUSIONS: Widespread tobacco availability and noncompliance with regulations near schools highlight serious public health local challenges. Stronger enforcement, engaging local consumer protection bodies, regulatory updates, and sensitizing retailers and students are urgently needed to protect students.