Prevalence of youth cigarette smoking and selected social factors in 25 European countries: findings from the Global Youth Tobacco Survey

Abstract

Objectives: To present Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS) data on the prevalence of cigarette smoking and selected social factors among students aged 13-15 years in 25 European countries.

Methods: The GYTS is a school-based survey of students aged 13-15 years. The GYTS was conducted in 25 European countries (2002-2005) and produced representative data for each country.

Results: In 25 European countries studied, 22% of boys and 18% of girls smoked cigarettes. In 17 of 25 countries, current cigarette smoking did not differ between boys and girls. Exposure to secondhand smoke is very high throughout the 25 countries. Exposure to pro-tobacco indirect advertising (having tobacco company logos on promotional items and being given free cigarettes) is frequent throughout the countries.

Conclusions: Intensified efforts to lessen harm caused by tobacco use among youth in 25 European countries included in this study are urgently needed. These countries need to develop and implement comprehensive tobacco control programs including public education campaigns, cessation programs, enforcement of existing measures, and related policy efforts. The WHO FCTC provides a useful framework for implementing such a comprehensive approach.