No Tobacco Day: Eye-Opening Tobacco Use Statistics You Need to Know

Every year, World No Tobacco Day, observed on May 31st, serves as a crucial reminder of the global efforts to reduce tobacco use and its devastating impact on health. Tobacco consumption continues to be one of the leading causes of preventable diseases and deaths worldwide. The statistics are staggering and highlight the urgency of tobacco control measures.

Global Tobacco Use at a Glance

• According to the World Health Organization (WHO), over 1.3 billion people worldwide use tobacco products.
• Tobacco kills more than 8 million people annually, with over 7 million deaths resulting from direct tobacco use and 1.2 million from exposure to secondhand smoke.
• Nearly 80% of the world’s smokers live in low- and middle-income countries, where health systems often struggle to address tobacco-related illnesses.

Tobacco and Youth

• The rise in e-cigarettes and vaping has led to concerning trends among young people. WHO reports that 9% of adolescents aged 13–15 globally use tobacco in some form.
• Flavored tobacco products are a significant driver of youth tobacco use, making it harder to curb initiation rates.

Economic Burden of Tobacco

• The global economic costs of tobacco-related illnesses amount to over $1.4 trillion annually, including healthcare expenses and productivity losses.
• Individuals who quit smoking not only improve their health but also reduce financial strain caused by tobacco dependence.

Secondhand Smoke: A Hidden Danger

• Exposure to secondhand smoke leads to 1.2 million deaths each year, including severe risks to children, such as respiratory infections and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

Steps to Take

On No Tobacco Day, take a stand. Whether you’re a smoker considering quitting or a non-smoker advocating for stronger tobacco regulations, your actions matter. Encourage governments and organizations to enforce smoke-free environments, increase taxes on tobacco products, and promote anti-tobacco campaigns.

This day is not just about awareness; it’s about action. Together, we can create a healthier, tobacco-free future for generations to come.

Call to Action
Are you ready to quit smoking or help someone else make the change? Visit WHO’s Tobacco Control for resources and support.