In this article, we will be taking a look at the female smoking rates by country: top 20. If you do not want to learn about the global tobacco market, head straight to the Female Smoking Rates by Country: Top 5.
The prevalence of female smoking rates varies significantly across countries, reflecting diverse cultural attitudes, socioeconomic factors, and public health policies. Understanding these variations is crucial for addressing the complex dynamics influencing tobacco use among women globally. This topic delves into the disparities in female smoking rates among different nations, examining contributing factors and potential implications for public health initiatives and policy interventions.
Tobacco Market Dynamics and Smoking Trends in the United States
The global tobacco market continues to expand, with a projected growth rate of 2.5% from 2024 to 2030, reaching an estimated value of USD 1,049.87 billion. This growth is driven by factors such as increasing health consciousness, demand for animal-sourced protein, and the addictive nature of nicotine. Despite efforts to curb tobacco consumption, new product launches and nicotine addiction sustain the industry.
In the United States, tobacco use remains a pressing public health issue. Approximately 28.3 million adults smoke cigarettes, resulting in nearly half a million premature deaths annually and over $225 billion spent on smoking-related medical care. According to Grand View Research, the U.S. tobacco market, valued at USD 75.9 billion in 2021, is anticipated to grow at a CAGR of 3.4% from 2022 to 2030, reaching USD 102.7 billion. Cigarettes dominate the market, holding an 86.2% share due to consumer preference and widespread availability.
Within the U.S., major tobacco companies such as Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM), Reynolds American Inc., ITG Brands, and Liggett collectively account for approximately 92% of cigarette sales. The southeastern region, particularly Kentucky, stands out for its significant tobacco consumption, with Kentucky being the most tobacco-dependent state in the country. Additionally, the popularity of e-cigarettes among adults across various states has influenced tobacco consumption patterns.
In this landscape, well-established players like Pyxus International, Inc. and Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) also drive market growth, capitalizing on factors such as stress, anxiety, and boredom that contribute to increased tobacco product usage. Moreover, online channels are poised for substantial growth, fueled by the availability of flavored e-cigarettes and the convenience of online ordering.
Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM) is prioritizing a smoke-free future, aiming to be over two-thirds smoke-free by 2030, with IQOS leading the way. They're investing in sustainability, such as promoting female economic growth in Connecticut with a $5 million investment. Financially, they're progressing well, with a forecasted growth of 7% to 9% in adjusted diluted EPS for 2023. They're set to present their first-quarter results on April 23, 2024. Philip Morris International Inc. (NYSE:PM) is actively innovating and investing in sustainable growth to reduce smoking-related harm.
On the other hand, Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) is a diversified company with positions in tobacco, alcohol, and cannabis. The company focuses on responsible marketing of its iconic brands to adult consumers while emphasizing Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) issues for long-term sustainability.
Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) 's financial performance includes net revenues of $24.5 billion in 2023 and an annualized dividend per share of $3.92 in August 2023. The company has made strategic investments, such as acquiring Njoy Holdings Inc. in 2023 and expanding its heated tobacco portfolio through partnerships with other companies. Altria Group, Inc. (NYSE:MO) aims to lead the transition to a smoke-free future for adult smokers and operates primarily in the U.S., with a strong focus on community impact and responsible resource management.
Addressing the Global Epidemic of Tobacco Smoking: Impact, Disparities, and Health Consequences for Women
Tobacco smoking, recognized as a perilous and fatal habit, claims the lives of over 8 million people annually, according to data from the World Health Organization (WHO). Shockingly, about 1 billion individuals worldwide smoke, with 80% residing in low- and middle-income nations. Experts advocate for the effectiveness of raising tobacco taxes as a potent strategy to combat smoking, citing a significant decline of roughly 4% in high-income countries and 5% in low- and middle-income countries for every 10% increase in tobacco prices, as per WHO statistics.
Gender disparities in smoking rates are notable, with less than 10% of women globally smoking compared to approximately 40% of men. Disturbingly high rates of smoking exist in certain countries, as explored in our detailed article on the 20 Countries with the Highest Rates of Smoking. In the United States, while about 13.5% of women were smokers in 2016, the rates varied across racial/ethnic groups, with American Indian/Alaska Native women having the highest rate at 34.8%, followed by non-Hispanic white women (15.5%), Hispanic women (7.0%), and Asian American women (5.6%). Notably, lesbian and bisexual women exhibited a higher smoking rate of 17.9% compared to 13.5% for heterosexual women.
The health repercussions of smoking among women in the U.S. are grave, with an estimated 202,000 female deaths attributed to cigarette smoking annually. It's linked to 80% of lung cancer deaths in women yearly and elevates the risk of various cancers including those affecting the oral cavity, pharynx, larynx, esophagus, pancreas, kidney, bladder, and uterine cervix. Female smokers face a significantly heightened risk of dying from chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and are more susceptible to coronary heart diseases.
For our methodology, we have ranked the female smoking rates by country based on the percentage of female smokers in those countries in the year 2022. For the accuracy of data, we relied on WHO.
Here is our list of the female smoking rates by country: top 20.
20. Cyprus
Total Female Smokers: 23.9%
Cyprus has a significant female smoking population, with a rate of 23.9% in 2022, though showing a slight decline. High school girls exhibit a prevalence of 23.2% smoking, with 19.0% of 17-18-year-olds being daily smokers. Men are three times more likely to smoke than women, with 30.1% of men being daily smokers. Smoking rates among youth aged 13-15 are higher than in some countries but lower than others.
19. Austria
Total Female Smokers: 24%
In Austria, the prevalence of smoking, particularly among females, has increased over the years, making Austria stand among the countries with high female smoking rates. Between 1986 and 1995, regular female smokers rose by 33.7% to reach 24.2%. Approximately 31% of females aged 15 and above are regular cigarette smokers, with a peak in the 25-34 age group. In 2022, the female smoking rate was 24%, with fluctuations witnessed over time. Smoking-related health risks in Austria include chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and respiratory conditions, impacting individuals, families, and society.
18. Belgium
Total Female Smokers: 24.5%
In Belgium, daily smoking is more prevalent among men (18%) than women (12%) as of 2018. Approximately 947,191 adult females were smokers in 2019. Daily smoking is highest among those aged 15 and over, with a declining trend since 1997. Lower education levels correlate with higher smoking rates, with those with lower secondary education being 3.1 times more likely to smoke daily. The economic cost of smoking in Belgium is €8.6 billion annually, including healthcare expenses and lost productivity. Smoking causes 18% of all deaths in Belgium, with higher rates among men.
17. Papua New Guinea
Total Female Smokers: 24.9%
In Papua New Guinea, the smoking prevalence among females is high, with 24.94% of women being smokers in 2022, making Papua New Guinea stand among the countries with high female smoking rates. A study found that 8% of females interviewed in NCD were smokers, with the highest prevalence among 15-16-year-olds. The economic cost of smoking in Papua New Guinea is significant, totaling 1,013,243,584 kinas annually, with smokers spending a considerable portion of GDP per capita on cigarettes. Tobacco use contributes to noncommunicable diseases such as cancer, heart disease, respiratory diseases, and diabetes, with 13% of all deaths in the country attributed to smoking, with higher rates among men.
16. Lebanon
Total Female Smokers: 25.7%
Lebanon has one of the highest smoking rates in the Middle East, with 38% of adults aged 18 to 69 being current tobacco smokers in 2020. The average age for first-time smoking among adolescents is around 13, with boys smoking more than girls. Smoking-related diseases like COPD and lung cancer are major health concerns in Lebanon, contributing to high mortality rates.
15. Czech Republic
Total Female Smokers: 26.5%
In the Czech Republic, female smoking rates are significant, with adult women showing a prevalence of 26.5% in 2022. Female doctors smoke more frequently than both male doctors and the general female population. Smoking-related expenses are substantial due to medical treatments for diseases like lung cancer, COPD, heart disease, and stroke.
14. Chile
Total Female Smokers: 26.7%
In Chile, female smoking rates were around 26.7% in 2022. Smoking accounts for 11% of all deaths in Chile, with women smokers experiencing higher risks of spontaneous abortions and early menopause. The economic cost of smoking is significant, amounting to around 3.01% of GDP per capita annually. Over 2.3 million adult females smoke in Chile, contributing to smoking-related diseases that cause 16% of all deaths and approximately 16,472 deaths in 2017. Chile also stands among the countries with worst smoking problems.
13. Kiribati
Total Female Smokers: 26.8%
In Kiribati, there's a significant prevalence of female smokers, ranging from 32.3% to 35.9% of adult women, with a reported rate of 26.8% in 2022, making Kiribati stand among the countries that smoke the most. Smoking imposes a notable economic burden due to the costs of purchasing tobacco and treating related diseases. Common smoking-related illnesses among female smokers in Kiribati include COPD, lung cancer, heart disease, and other tobacco-related conditions, contributing to the country's healthcare burden.
12. Spain
Total Female Smokers: 27.5%
In Spain, tobacco use among women has been increasing, with 27.5% of women smoking in 2022. The highest prevalence is seen in the 25-to-44-year-old age group. Spain faces significant smoking-related health challenges, with common diseases including COPD, lung cancer, and cardiovascular diseases.
11. Hungary
Total Female Smokers: 28.1%
In Hungary, the proportion of female smokers has risen, reaching 28.1% by 2022. The country faces significant economic costs due to smoking, totaling 1,696,308,264,960 forints annually. Smoking-related diseases, including cancer and heart disease, are major concerns, contributing to 21% of all deaths. The tobacco industry profits from producing and selling tobacco products, with 8 billion cigarettes produced in Hungary in 2016, leading to environmental harm and health risks.
10. Slovakia
Total Female Smokers: 28.5%
In Slovakia, the smoking rate among females is 28.5%. A study from 1997 revealed an increasing trend in female smoking habits, emphasizing the need for attention to social smoking behaviors. expenses on cigarettes, healthcare for smoking-related diseases, and productivity losses. Common smoking-related diseases include lung cancer, COPD, heart disease, stroke, and respiratory conditions, posing significant health risks and financial burdens.
9. Greece
Total Female Smokers: 30.6%
In Greece, smoking remains a significant public health concern, with a higher prevalence among males (44.3%) compared to females (30.6%). Secondhand smoke exposure is notable at work, home, and public places. The smoking epidemic imposes substantial economic burdens, with over €554 million spent on hospital costs for smoking-related diseases in 2011. Despite a declining trend, the smoking rate in Greece was 34.50% in 2018.
8. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Total Female Smokers: 30.9%
In Bosnia and Herzegovina, approximately 30.9% of adult women smoke, contributing to an annual economic cost of 857,568,256 convertible marks, making Bosnia and Herzegovina stand among the countries with high female smoking rates. Tobacco-related diseases are a major concern, accounting for 25% of all deaths. smokers spend a significant portion of their income on cigarettes, with an average of 6.09% of GDP per capita allocated for purchasing 100 packs annually. The environmental impact includes an estimated 730 tons of discarded cigarette butts each year.
7. Montenegro
Total Female Smokers: 33.2%
Montenegro has a high prevalence of female smokers, with rates reaching 33.2% in 2022. Overall smoking prevalence stands at 32%, driven by increases in female smoking rates across all age groups. Smoking-related diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, respiratory diseases, and cancer, pose significant concerns, with projected premature deaths reaching 76,000 out of 152,000 current smokers.
6. France
Total Female Smokers: 33.7%
France has one of the highest female smoking rates globally, with more than one in five women aged 18-75 smoking daily. By the age of 17, nearly one in four girls is a daily smoker. The prevalence of young female smokers increased from 19.2% in 2014 to 27.6% in 2019. Financially, cigarette excise revenue in France reaches millions of euros annually, with a per-pack excise value of €4.22 in 2019.
