The World Health Organization (WHO) projects Europe will retain its position as the global leader in tobacco use by 2030. This alarming trend is driven by concerning rates among women and young people. The European Region, encompassing 53 countries, is the only WHO region unlikely to meet the target of a 30% reduction in female tobacco use between 2010 and 2025.
Dr. Hans Henri P. Kluge, WHO Regional Director for Europe, stated that tobacco use already contributes to over 1.1 million deaths annually from noncommunicable diseases in the region. He emphasized the urgent need for accelerated action to protect youth from nicotine addiction, prevent industry interference in health policies, and enforce regulations.
Young girls aged 13-15 in Europe exhibit the highest tobacco use rates globally for their age group. This is attributed to deliberate industry strategies, including flavored products and social media marketing targeting youth. Countries like Belgium, Denmark, and the Netherlands are cited as examples of successful pushback through regulation of novel products, flavor bans, and advertising restrictions.
Approximately 4 million children aged 13-15 in the European Region use tobacco products. The region also leads globally in e-cigarette use among this demographic, with nearly equal rates between boys and girls. Among adults, Europe has the second-highest e-cigarette prevalence worldwide, with over 31 million users.
Further compounding the issue, only 18 of the 53 countries in the European Region have comprehensive smoke-free laws covering all public spaces. Additionally, cigarettes have become more affordable in 19 countries within the region since 2014.
Meanwhile, a recent study published in Neurology investigated smoking patterns and the risk of Parkinson's disease. Findings suggest a potential association between current cigarette smoking and a lower risk of Parkinson's disease, though sustained quitting significantly reduces overall mortality risk.