Europe Now Holds Lead in Tobacco Use as Global Rates Decline
BRUSSELS - Europe is now experiencing slower declines in tobacco use compared to the rest of the world,positioning it as a global outlier in the fight against smoking,according to new data released by the World Health Organization (WHO).While worldwide tobacco prevalence is falling, the rate of decrease in Europe is lagging, raising concerns about public health efforts across the continent.
Currently,approximately 1.2 billion people worldwide aged 15 and older use tobacco. However, Europe’s progress in reducing smoking rates has stalled relative to other regions, prompting renewed scrutiny of preventative measures and cessation programs. This shift is particularly notable as the WHO and European Union officials work towards ambitious targets for a ”smoke-free generation.”
The WHO’s European region, encompassing 53 countries including Russia, reflects this trend. Recent findings align with a June 2024 Eurobarometer survey, which revealed that 24 percent of individuals within the European Union currently smoke tobacco.
Historically, tobacco prevalence in Europe has decreased from nearly 35 percent in 2000 to just over 24 percent in 2020. This contrasts sharply with Southeast Asia, where consumption has plummeted from around 54 percent to over 23 percent during the same timeframe.
Alongside traditional tobacco use, the report also highlights the growing prevalence of vaping. In 2024, over 86 million adults worldwide vape, with the Americas and Europe exhibiting the highest rates among those aged 15 and over, at 4.8 percent and 4.6 percent respectively. These figures underscore the evolving landscape of nicotine consumption and the need for comprehensive policies addressing both smoking and vaping.
