Global Tobacco Use Declines Despite Industry Resistance, WHO Reports

The World Health Organization's report on global tobacco use shows a decrease in rates, but not as much as hoped, with about 1.25 billion tobacco users aged 15 and older in 2022. Known tobacco control methods have been effective, but not all countries are implementing them to the fullest extent. While some countries have seen significant drops in tobacco use, others, including the United States, still have relatively high rates. Concerns also arise regarding adolescent girls using tobacco at higher rates in certain regions. The report does not include full data on e-cigarettes, but the tobacco industry's focus on alternative nicotine products is noted, with the WHO attributing the continued lure of cigarettes to industry manipulation of health policies.