Strategies for Tobacco Product Marketing and Sales around Five Brazilian Public Schools

Abstract

Introduction: The World Health Organization has warned that chronic noncommunicable diseases, including those associated with smoking, are “transmitted” through corporate commercial practices. In this context, the tobacco industry employs advertising and sales strategies designed to attract new consumers, particularly children and adolescents. Objective: To map the density of tobacco product availability around five public elementary schools and to describe the advertising, display, and sales strategies adopted by the tobacco industry and retailers. Method: A descriptive observational survey was conducted at points of sale located within a 300-meter radius of the schools. Researchers acted as non- participant observers and photographed the establishments without interfering with their routine operations. All locations were georeferenced to enable analysis of tobacco supply density. Results: Of the 170 points of sale visited, 48.2% sold tobacco products, with the highest proportion observed in newsstands (35.4%). Among establishments selling tobacco, 87% sold single cigarettes and 39% displayed price lists to consumers. Qualitative analysis further revealed irregularities in the application of health warnings, the sale of illegal products (including electronic cigarettes and contraband cigarettes), the use of price lists as a form of advertising, and the placement of cigarettes alongside candies, sweets, and children’s items. Conclusion: The findings suggest either limited awareness of health regulations among retailers or non-compliance with such regulations, as well as possible shortcomings in enforcement. Tobacco products were found to be widely available around schools, and retail practices that increase their accessibility and appeal to minors were identified. These findings point to the need for stricter regulation, stronger health surveillance, and targeted educational initiatives.