World No Tobacco Day is observed annually on May 31 to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and advocate for stronger measures to reduce tobacco and nicotine addiction.
The 2026 theme, “Unmasking the Appeal: Countering Nicotine and Tobacco Addiction,” highlights growing concerns over the marketing of nicotine products, especially to young people.
The World Health Organization (WHO) warns that flavoured tobacco and nicotine products, including e-cigarettes and nicotine pouches, are increasingly being promoted as modern and attractive alternatives.
Social media has also played a significant role in increasing youth exposure to these products.
According to WHO, about 40 million children aged 13 to 15 years use tobacco globally, while an estimated 15 million adolescents use e-cigarettes.
In many countries, vaping among children has surpassed adult usage rates.
WHO is calling for stronger regulations on product flavours, advertising and packaging to curb nicotine addiction.
Health experts stress that preventing youth uptake is key to reducing the long-term health and economic burden caused by tobacco use.
