Tobacco and nicotine use remains high in Luxembourg, with a notable rise among young people, according to the ILRES 2025 survey published by the National Health Directorate and the Cancer Foundation.
Ahead of World No Tobacco Day on 31 May, the two institutions released the findings of the national smoking survey. The data shows that nearly a third of Luxembourg residents aged 16 and over – approximately 177,000 people – smoke regularly or occasionally. Men are more likely to smoke than women, at 36% compared to 27%.
The prevalence of daily smokers has risen to 16%, while the share of occasional smokers has increased from 8% to 15%.
Tobacco and nicotine consumption is particularly high among young adults. The proportion of smokers reaches 41% among 16 to 24-year-olds and 42% among those aged 25 to 34.
For the youngest demographic, consumption is not limited to traditional cigarettes. Shisha, e-cigarettes, and nicotine pouches are also widely used.
The survey also indicates that many users start before the age of 18. Compared to 2024, the increase is mainly driven by occasional smokers.
The figures for the 16 to 24 age bracket are particularly striking: 16% say they smoke cigarettes every day, 7% report using nicotine pouches daily, and another 7% say they smoke e-cigarettes daily. According to the Cancer Foundation, e-cigarettes in particular serve as a gateway to tobacco consumption. 38% of young people say they started with vapes before switching to cigarettes, while one in five of those surveyed said their cigarette consumption increased after they began vaping.
The survey results highlight the importance of social context as a driver of tobacco use. Among respondents, 34% said that smoking gives a "cool" image, while 32% reported smoking when partying with friends.
Stress was cited by 22% of all respondents. Among those aged 16 to 24, however, this proportion rises to 39%, making stress a particularly significant factor for the youngest age group.
Despite continued high usage, a notable share of smokers wish to overcome their addiction, according to the press release from the National Health Directorate and the Cancer Foundation. Over the past 12 months, 36% of smokers have attempted to quit. Health-related concerns were the most frequently cited reason for quitting, mentioned by 43% of those who tried.
The desire to stop smoking is also strong among young smokers, with one in two stating they want to quit, the two institutions reported.
The press release also notes that exposure to passive smoke remains high in everyday settings, particularly for young people. This applies to certain outdoor spaces as well as social venues and indoor events.
Luxembourg has a smoking prevalence of 16%, placing it at roughly the same level as Germany and Belgium. In France, by contrast, the rate is considerably higher at nearly 24%.
The Cancer Foundation notes that professional support significantly increases the chances of successfully quitting tobacco for good. Further information is available at the website maviesanstabac.lu.
The press release adds that Luxembourg strengthened its legal framework at the beginning of the year. Since 1 January 2026, a law passed on 28 November 2025 has set a maximum nicotine content of 0.048 mg per unit for nicotine pouches and other new nicotine products.
The law also bans the consumption of such products in places frequented by young people, including schools and playgrounds. Stimulant additives associated with energy or vitality – such as caffeine, taurine, or CBD – are also prohibited.
Heated tobacco products are now subject to the same rules as traditional cigarettes. Sales to minors remain strictly forbidden, and there is an obligation to check identification in cases of doubt.
