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Smoking Rate Hits Record Low in U.S.
30 May
Summary
- U.S. adult smoking rate fell to 9% last year, an all-time low.
- This marks the first time the rate has dropped below 10% since 2024.
- Cuts to prevention programs by a past administration may have stalled progress.
The percentage of U.S. adults who currently smoke cigarettes has fallen to a new record low. In the past year, only 9% of adults reported being current smokers, marking the first time the rate has dipped below 10% since 2024. This represents a substantial decrease from the 42% of adults who smoked in the mid-1960s.
Several factors have contributed to this decades-long decline, including increased cigarette taxes, public smoking bans, and educational campaigns. While electronic cigarette use has remained relatively steady among adults, the overall reduction in traditional smoking is hailed as a major public health victory, potentially saving billions in healthcare costs. However, concerns have been raised that reduced funding for key smoking prevention programs by a previous administration may impede further progress.
