The percentage of smokers in the EU has decreased by only one percentage point over the past three years, raising questions about the EU’s approach to tobacco control measures. The latest Eurobarometer 2024 survey reveals surprising figures that the EU likely did not anticipate. The current EU strategy is not on track to achieve the target of a 5% smoking rate within the population. At the current trend, the smoking rate will only fall below 5% by the year 2100, which is 60 years later than the EU’s target year of 2040.
Some Key Findings of the Eurobarometer 2024 Survey:
- Over 35% of people in Bulgaria, Greece, and Croatia are smokers, compared to less than 10% in Sweden.
- Boxed cigarettes remain the most popular choice among smokers, with approximately seven in ten smokers using them daily.
- The average cigarette consumption remains the same compared to 2020, with smokers averaging around 14 cigarettes per day.
- Electronic cigarettes (e-cigarettes) are used by 3% of respondents, particularly among people aged 15 to 39.
- One in three respondents started using e-cigarettes because their friends did, while 36% chose vaping to quit or reduce their tobacco consumption.
- Heated tobacco products are used by 2% of Europeans.
- 3% of Europeans are vapers.
- Nicotine pouches have been tried by 4% of Europeans.
The EU’s focus on these products is misplaced. With nearly a quarter of the EU population still smoking, the priority should be on helping smokers switch to less harmful alternatives. The Eurobarometer survey clearly indicates that the current EU strategy is failing. It is time to prioritize harm reduction and make effective changes.