The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced a significant decline in the number of smokers since the start of the millennium, from one in three adults to one in five in 2022. A WHO report indicates that 150 countries have reduces tobacco consumption. However, the WHO warns that tobacco deaths will remain high, with more than eight million deaths per year, including 1.3 million non-smokers exposed to second-hand smoke.
Despite the decrease in the number of smokers, the WHO estimates that the objective of reducing tobacco consumption by 30% between 2010 and 2025 will not be achieved. Only 56 countries, including Brazil, are expected to achieve this, while six countries, including the Democratic Republic of Congo and Egypt, have seen their tobacco consumption increase.
Overall, the world is on track to reduce tobacco consumption by a quarter between 2010 and 2025. However, the WHO warns of efforts by the tobacco industry to undermine this progress, including targeting children with new addictive products.
C.Reynes
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