'Happy Prostitute' Ad Campaign Dropped By Brazil Health Ministry Following Criticism [VIDEO]

The Brazilian Health Ministry has dropped ads describing a "Happy Prostitute" after receiving backlash and criticism for promoting and glamorizing prostitution. The ad was meant to be a part of a larger message educating the public about sexually transmitted diseases and promote safe sex.

"The role of the ministry is to have specific content to encourage prevention among sex workers," said Alexander Padilha, the head of the Health Ministry. Padilha added that prostitutes are a group more vulnerable to STD's.

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BBC says part of the goal of the "Happy Prostitute" was to reduce prejudice against prostitution. In Brazil prostitution is legal. Many young men and women will enter into sex work as young teens because of the extreme poverty they face.

Alexander Padilha issued a statement after the ad was pulled saying he never supported the ad and did not think the "Happy Prostitute" image was something the Ministry should be promoting.

"I do not think this is a message the ministry should be sending," Padilha said. "For as long as I remain in office and ad like that will not be part of our campaigns."

Reports suggest sex tourism in Brazil is a growing industry. With Brazil hosting the 2014 FIFI World Cup and the 2016 Olympic it is believed that the number of sex tours will increase for the major events. CNN reports Brazilian prostitutes are taking language classes in order to be able to speak with their "clients" when the time comes.

This is not the first time the Brazilian Health Ministry has taken criticism for a sexual health ad. Brazil is a large Roman Catholic country. Last year the Ministry had to change an ad featuring a gay couple.

This year the ministry will get its safe sex campaign out to the public without using the reference to the "Happy Prostitute." Instead the ad will be called, "Not ashamed of using a condom."