Global Tobacco Use: Almost Everywhere, Men are Most Likely to Light Up

What We’re Showing

The prevalence of tobacco use in selected countries around the world using the latest data from the World Health Organization.

The Big Picture

Globally, rates of tobacco use have been falling for decades, and are projected to continue falling. Today, one-in-five people around the world use tobacco products. In almost every country, men use tobacco more than women. Globally, 36% men are tobacco users compared to just 8% of women.

Regional Context

• Tobacco use can vary widely from country to country, and between sexes
• Many countries in Europe and Asia have high rates of tobacco use
• Middle Eastern countries have high rates of tobacco use for men only
• Africa and the Americas have lower prevalence of tobacco use

See the data tab for the full list of countries.