Canada has achieved one of the lowest smoking rates globally, with Health Canada reporting a historic decline in tobacco consumption. According to the latest Canadian Community Health Survey, the national smoking rate has plummeted from 29% in 2001 to just 13% in 2024. This progress aligns with National Non-Smoking Week, highlighting the success of public health strategies aimed at a smoke-free future.
Key Takeaways
- Historic Drop: Smoking rates fell from 29% (2001) to 13% (2024) nationwide.
- Youth Success: Daily smoking among youth is now under 1%, an all-time low.
- Vaping Decline: Youth vaping has dropped to 6%, a 60% decrease from its 2019 peak.
- Global Ranking: Canada ranks 42nd globally for tobacco use, with only 10.7% of the total population smoking (World Population Review).
Youth Trends and the 2035 Goal
Tracking the 2024 growth metrics shows that Canada is on pace to meet its ambitious target. Health Canada's goal, set in 2018, is to reduce tobacco use to less than 5% by 2035. The data suggests this is achievable, particularly due to the collapse in youth initiation. Daily smoking among children and youth has virtually vanished, sitting below 1%. Furthermore, the "vaping epidemic" appears to be receding, with usage down 60% from 2019 levels.
The "Substitution" Trap
Despite the positive macro trends, individual struggles persist. Ethan Webb, a laborer in North Vancouver, represents a new demographic of smokers using tobacco as a cessation tool for cannabis. "I’m trying to stop smoking weed... It’s like a substitute," Webb explained. However, he acknowledges the immediate physical toll, citing constant headaches and feeling "like crap." His experience highlights the complex relationship between different forms of substance use, where vaping and cigarettes are often swapped rather than quit entirely.
Is Canada winning the war on smoking?
Yes. With rates nearly halved since 2001 and youth smoking effectively eradicated (<1%), Canada is a global leader in tobacco control. The next challenge is hitting the "under 5%" target by 2035.
