2Firsts, 4 December 2025— According to Gulf News, Sweden is on course to become Europe’s first smoke-free nation as its daily smoking rate has dropped below the World Health Organization’s 5% benchmark. The rate fell from 15% in 2005 to 5.2% last year and has continued to decrease this year.
The report highlights that Sweden’s progress stems from sustained public health campaigns as well as the growing adoption of reduced-risk alternatives. Sweden is the only EU country that allows the commercial sale of Snus, and around 18% of the population uses Snus or similar nicotine products. Experts note that these products are not risk-free but are significantly less harmful than cigarettes.
Over the past decade, daily smoking has declined by 55%, while tobacco-related deaths among men have fallen by 38%, and lung cancer cases by 41%. Public health specialists say Sweden's combination of regulation, awareness, and safer alternatives offers a pragmatic model for countries seeking to reduce smoking prevalence.
Image source：Gulf News
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