A responsabilidade civil das indústrias fumígenas diante dos pacientes oncológicos

Abstract

Cigarette smoking is considered one of the main chemical factors associated with cancer. Despite its deleterious effects, smoking is still permitted. Thus, the main objective of this study was to demonstrate under what circumstances, in light of the Consumer Protection Code, the tobacco industry is liable to consumers for negative health impacts. The secondary objectives were to assess cancer patients’ knowledge of the chemical composition of cigarettes and to describe the impact produced on patients’ socioeconomic situation. Our analysis shows that the interviewed patients had suffered financial losses due to spending on medication, hospital and medical supplies, transportation, special diets, thus compromising the family budget. We also observed impacts on the social life of most patients. From the legal and social point of view, the demonstration of material and moral damages suffered by these patients as a result of smoking has ratified the liability of the tobacco industry in relation to cancer patients.