A new series of fact sheets from WHO/Europe sheds light on how countries in the region are implementing the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (WHO FCTC). Based on the 2023 WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic, the fact sheets highlight successes in areas like monitoring and awareness but also expose significant gaps in policies aimed at curbing tobacco use and its devastating health impacts.

Tobacco use remains a major contributor to noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and chronic respiratory conditions. Dr. Gauden Galea, Strategic Advisor to the Regional Director at WHO/Europe, stressed the urgency of stronger tobacco control measures, pointing out that 179 million adults and 4 million adolescents aged 13–15 in the region currently use tobacco. He warned that without decisive action, the European Region could have the highest tobacco use rate globally by 2030.

While countries in the region have made strides in monitoring tobacco use and raising awareness about its dangers, other critical areas remain underdeveloped. Only 11 nations provide comprehensive support for quitting tobacco, and just 18 have enacted comprehensive smoke-free laws. Advertising bans are similarly sparse, with only 13 countries fully prohibiting tobacco promotion.

High taxes on tobacco products, a proven deterrent, are in place in more than half of the region’s countries. However, affordability remains an issue, with cigarettes becoming less accessible in only six countries since 2020. Public health experts stress that tax increases must outpace income growth to effectively reduce consumption.

Dr. Galea highlighted that countries that have adopted comprehensive policies are already seeing measurable benefits. Smoke-free laws, higher taxes, and complete advertising bans have led to reduced rates of NCDs, such as cancer and heart disease, in these nations. However, the region as a whole is falling short of global targets.

As part of the WHO Global Action Plan for the Prevention and Control of NCDs, countries have committed to reducing tobacco use by 30% by 2025. Yet, only 11 countries in the European Region are on track to meet this goal. Most are expected to see declines below the target threshold, while some may experience no change or even an increase in tobacco use.

Tobacco control is not only vital for public health but is also a key element of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Target 3.a, which calls for full implementation of the WHO FCTC. With tobacco-related diseases causing over 1.2 million deaths annually in the region, comprehensive action is essential to reduce this burden and achieve global health objectives.

Dr. Galea emphasized the need for a unified approach, advocating for increased collaboration, resource sharing, and commitment to implementing best practices. He expressed optimism, noting that the data already show how bold actions can lead to significant improvements. With the 2025 and 2030 global targets rapidly approaching, the time to strengthen tobacco control efforts is now.

The WHO’s fact sheets aim to empower policymakers and advocates with tailored data to drive impactful measures, helping to create a healthier, tobacco-free future for the European Region.