The Role of the Interdisciplinary Dynamic Museum (MUDI/UEM) as a promoter of training in combating the use of Electronic Smoking Devices (ESDs)

Abstract

This work presents and analyzes the role of the Interdisciplinary Dynamic Museum of the State University of Maringá (MUDI/UEM) as a key agent in training professionals to confront the use of Electronic Smoking Devices (ESDs) among young people. Starting from an alarming state and national scenario, where data from LENAD III (2025) reveals that 8.7% of Brazilian adolescents aged 14 to 17 use e-cigarettes – a prevalence five times higher than that of conventional tobacco in this age group –, the text details the execution of the outreach project "Training for Education and Health Professionals to Combat ESD Use in Schools" throughout 2025. The methodology, based on interdisciplinarity and the practical application of knowledge,

was operationalized through two training sessions that exceeded the initial target, reaching 320 professionals to date. The actions included lectures with specialists, practical workshops focusing on playful language, and the production of informative materials. Immediate results demonstrated high adherence and appropriation of the content. However, the most significant impact materialized later, with the documentation of autonomous multiplying actions carried out by participants. In parallel, the project established strategic partnerships with municipal and state public health and education authorities, positioning MUDI as an articulator between the university, public services, and the community for the discussion and proposition of public policies. It is concluded that the experience consolidates the museum's role as a dynamic space for translating scientific knowledge into effective social action, whose integrated training model proves to be a promising and replicable strategy in combating this contemporary public health challenge.

Keywords: museum; smoking; e-cigarettes; training; public policies.