While the smoking rate remains relatively stable for the general population, there is an alarming trend among young people in the last years: Vaping has doubled among 16-24-year-olds.

Each year on 31 May, World No-Tobacco Day brings attention to the dangers of smoking. The Luxembourg Ministry of Health and Social Security reveals the latest smoking prevalence statistics and raises awareness about the harmful and deadly effects of both active and passive smoking.

An annual study, conducted by ILRES on behalf of the Ministry and Cancer Foundation, shows a relatively stable smoking rate across the general population over the past four years, however the most concerning statistic is the near doubling of vaping product usage among the 16-24 age group from 2022 to 2023, with more than one in three young people now vaping. In the World Health Organization European Region, 20% of 15-year-olds surveyed reported using e-cigarettes in the past 30 days.

Pleasure and taste are the main reasons 54% of e-cigarette users cite for vaping. "There is a clear trend towards the trivialisation of vaping products and their health risks. Additionally, the emergence of new nicotine products, such as nicotine pouches, has been a topic of significant discussion among public health officials and the government. We are pleased that these products will soon be regulated under anti-tobacco laws," stated Martine Deprez, Minister of Health and Social Security.

A World Health Organization report shows that globally an estimated 37 million children aged 13–15 years use tobacco. With e-cigarettes, young people are being enticed with flavours like candy and fruit. Research in the US found that more than 70% of youth e-cigarette users would quit if the products were only available in tobacco flavour.

Smoking quitters can receive reimbursements

The next Tobacco Control Programme will heavily focus on preventing tobacco use among young people, a key theme in the Cancer Foundation's national strategy, "Tobacco-Free Generation," which the Minister is eager to support.

To help smokers quit, the Health Directorate is working to improve and promote the Smoking Cessation Assistance Programme, which remains largely unknown to tobacco users. According to the ILRES study, one in two smokers is unaware of this programme. Established in 2008 in collaboration with the National Health Fund (CNS), it provides smokers with support and follow-up during their cessation process, including reimbursement for medication and substitution products.

Another important aspect of the ongoing Tobacco Control Programme discussions is raising awareness about the dangers of smoking in the workplace and promoting smoke-free work environments. Awareness events will continue to present cessation operations and encourage workers to quit smoking through collective challenges.