WHO report on the global tobacco epidemic, 2025: warning about the dangers of tobacco – World Health Organization (WHO)

Report on the Global Tobacco Epidemic 2025

Introduction

The World Health Organization (WHO) has released its tenth report on the global tobacco epidemic, which monitors the progress made by countries in tobacco control since 2008. This report aligns closely with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 3: Good Health and Well-being, by addressing the urgent need to reduce tobacco use worldwide.

MPOWER Technical Package

The MPOWER technical package was developed to assist countries in implementing the demand-reduction measures outlined in the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC). These measures contribute directly to achieving SDG 3 by reducing the health risks associated with tobacco consumption.

Focus on the ‘W’ Measure: Warning About the Dangers of Tobacco

The 2025 report emphasizes the ‘W’ measure, which involves warning the public about the dangers of tobacco use. Key findings include:

1. Protection of 6.1 billion people by at least one MPOWER measure at best-practice level.
2. Continued progress by many countries in tobacco control efforts.
3. Four countries have fully implemented the entire MPOWER package.
4. Seven additional countries are only one measure away from full implementation.
5. However, 40 countries still lack any MPOWER measure at best-practice level.

Implications for Sustainable Development Goals

• SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being): The report’s findings support efforts to reduce premature mortality from non-communicable diseases by strengthening tobacco control policies.
• SDG 10 (Reduced Inequalities): By targeting tobacco use globally, the report highlights the need to address health disparities between countries with varying levels of tobacco control implementation.
• SDG 17 (Partnerships for the Goals): The MPOWER package exemplifies international cooperation and technical support to help countries meet health-related targets.

Conclusion

The 2025 WHO report underscores significant advancements in global tobacco control, while also identifying gaps that require urgent attention. Strengthening the implementation of MPOWER measures worldwide is essential to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and ensuring healthier populations globally.

1. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Addressed or Connected

1. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – The article focuses on tobacco control, which directly relates to improving health outcomes and reducing mortality caused by tobacco use.
2. SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production – The demand-reduction measures and warnings about tobacco dangers relate to promoting responsible consumption patterns.

2. Specific Targets Under Those SDGs

1. SDG 3 Target 3.4: By 2030, reduce by one third premature mortality from non-communicable diseases through prevention and treatment, and promote mental health and well-being. Tobacco control is a key strategy in reducing non-communicable diseases.
2. SDG 3 Target 3.a: Strengthen the implementation of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control in all countries, as appropriate.
3. SDG 12 Target 12.8: By 2030, ensure that people everywhere have the relevant information and awareness for sustainable development and lifestyles in harmony with nature. The warning measures about tobacco dangers contribute to this target.

3. Indicators Mentioned or Implied to Measure Progress

1. Indicator for SDG 3.4: Mortality rate attributed to tobacco use and non-communicable diseases.
2. Indicator for SDG 3.a: Implementation status of the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, measured by the adoption of MPOWER measures at best-practice levels.
3. Indicator for SDG 12.8: Proportion of population protected by at least one MPOWER measure, specifically warnings about the dangers of tobacco.

4. Table of SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

Source: who.int