Global Tobacco Use Declines, but Industry Interference and Youth Targeting Remain Major Challenges

Global Tobacco Use Declines, But Challenges Remain

A new report by the World Health Organization (WHO) shows that global tobacco use has declined significantly since 2000. In 2022, about one in five adults worldwide were smokers or consumed other tobacco products, compared to one in three in 2000. This progress is attributed to the implementation of strong tobacco control measures in 150 countries.

However, despite the decline, tobacco-related deaths are expected to remain high for years to come. Currently, tobacco use kills more than eight million people each year, including an estimated 1.3 million non-smokers who are exposed to second-hand smoke.

The report also highlights the challenges that remain in the fight against tobacco use. The WHO warns that the tobacco industry is intent on rolling back the progress made in recent years. The industry uses various tactics to manipulate health policies and sell its deadly products, particularly targeting young people.

To address these challenges, the WHO urges all countries to maintain and strengthen tobacco control policies and fight "tobacco industry interference." A particular focus should be on gathering better data on tobacco use among adolescents, especially for newer so-called smokeless products.

The report emphasizes the importance of data collection to counter the tobacco industry's claims that adolescents are not being targeted as new clients. Gathering data from adolescents on their knowledge, attitudes, and practices is crucial to shape effective policies that prevent initiation of tobacco use.