Ukraine Survey: Nearly 50% of Youth Use Heated Tobacco, Public Backs Stricter Ad Bans

On November 21, a survey conducted by the Ukrainian public organization "Zhyttia" and the Kyiv International Institute of Sociology (KIIS) in September and October 2024 revealed that the smoking rate in Ukraine decreased by 3% within a year, while new tobacco products such as e-cigarettes are becoming increasingly popular among young people.

The survey results show that 27% of Ukrainians use traditional tobacco and nicotine products, with 23% of respondents stating that they smoke every day and 4% smoking occasionally.

Deputy Director of KIIS, Viktoriya Zahozha, pointed out that while the consumption of traditional tobacco products is gradually decreasing, the consumption of new tobacco products is increasing.

69% of smokers prefer traditional cigarettes, 23% opt for heated tobacco products (HTPs), 16% use e-cigarettes, 8% use hookah, and 2% use nicotine pouches. Additionally, 45% of young people aged 18-29 use heated tobacco products, compared to 37% last year.

These data are related to the level of exposure to tobacco and nicotine advertisements: 43% of respondents reported being exposed to tobacco and nicotine advertisements, with this proportion rising to 63% among young people aged 18-39. 32% of respondents believed that tobacco and nicotine product advertisements are most commonly found in trade locations, while 18% believed they are in banner ads on the internet.

Seventy percent of participants support banning advertisements for e-cigarette related devices and brands, while 68% support banning the prominent display of tobacco product packaging in stores. Additionally, 62% of those surveyed support banning flavored tobacco products, and 56% support increasing taxes on tobacco products and e-cigarette liquid.

Starting from January 11, 2024, Ukraine will implement new regulations on tobacco packaging labeling, with a total of 14 sets of health warnings about the dangers of smoking approved.