In this article, we will be taking a look at the 5 countries with the highest rates of smoking. If you wish to see a detailed analysis on this topic, head straight to the 20 Countries With The Highest Rates Of Smoking.
5. Croatia
Total Smoking Rate: 37.4%
In Croatia, the age-standardized smoking rate is 37.4%. This high smoking rate also impacts the country’s economy due to the costly treatment of smoking-related illnesses. Every year, over 13,000 people die in Croatia due to smoking-related causes, highlighting the seriousness of the issue. Additionally, smoking contributes to air pollution and environmental damage. Financially, smoking is expensive, with a pack of cigarettes costing around 26-32 kuna ($4.50) and daily smokers spending around 900 kuna ($135) monthly on cigarettes.
4. Kiribati
Total Smoking Rate: 37.5%
A single pack of Marlboro cigarettes is priced at AU$10 in Bairiki, Kiribati. This relatively high cost reflects the financial burden smoking can place on individuals in the country making it one of the highest smoking countries in the world. Smoking remains a prevalent habit despite the price, and the percentage of smokers is higher among men than women. The impact of smoking extends beyond the financial aspect, as it has numerous adverse effects on the health of people living in Kiribati, including an increased risk of severe illnesses like lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. To address the smoking issue, the government needs to implement effective policies and raise awareness about the risks associated with smoking to improve public health and reduce the economic burden caused by smoking-related healthcare costs.
3. Bulgaria
Total Smoking Rate: 38%
Bulgaria stands among the one of the highest smoking countries in Europe, with approximately 38% of age-standardized Bulgarians being regular smokers. The low cost of cigarettes is a financial burden on individuals, and smoking-related illnesses and deaths have a significant economic impact. Over 17,000 people die annually from smoking-related diseases, necessitating more comprehensive smoking prevention and cessation programs.
2. Serbia
Total Smoking Rate: 39%
Tobacco-related mortality significantly impacts neoplasms, accounting for 30% of deaths, with a higher share in men (43%) compared to women (14%), per IDN. On the other hand, smoking’s influence on cardiovascular diseases is relatively minor, contributing to approximately 6,000 deaths per year. Despite the rising accurate prices of cigarettes, Serbia still maintains relatively low prices, with the average weighted cost per pack being €2.05 in 2018. The EU-28 average for the same year was €4.8 per pack. Raising awareness and promoting smoking cessation is essential for improving well-being and society.
1. Nauru
Total Smoking Rate: 42.1%
Nauru grapples with a significant smoking issue, with age standardized rate of smoking being 42.1%, leading to dire health repercussions like respiratory ailments, heart disease, and lung cancer. Pregnant women face added risks, affecting both maternal health and unborn children. Moreover, the cost of cigarettes in Nauru, averaging 9.50 USD (14 AUD) per pack, creates a financial burden. Comparatively, even well-known brands like Kent, Dunhill, and Davidoff are priced at approximately 12 USD (18 AUD). To mitigate these challenges, a comprehensive approach involving robust smoking cessation programs and awareness campaigns is vital to bolster public health and alleviate the economic weight of smoking-linked healthcare costs.
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