World No Tobacco Day is an international observance held annually on May 31, organized by the World Health Organization (WHO) to highlight the harms of tobacco products on human health, the environment and society. The day aims to create awareness to prevent tobacco use and encourage cessation.

History

World No Tobacco Day was first established in 1988. Its primary purpose is to bring attention to the negative health effects of tobacco products and promote public awareness regarding tobacco use. Today, the day is observed globally and in Türkiye through various events organized by institutions and organizations.

Purpose and Importance

The main goal of World No Tobacco Day is to make the harms of tobacco products visible, encourage users to quit and foster a societal awareness of avoiding tobacco use. Its significance is linked to the fact that tobacco use causes millions of deaths worldwide each year and passive smoking also poses significant risks. Tobacco use leads to premature death in about half of its users, while passive smoking is estimated to account for over 1.2 million deaths annually. According to WHO data, more than 8 million people die each year from tobacco-related diseases.^【1】 

Harmful Effects of Tobacco and Nicotine

Nicotine is a highly addictive stimulant found in cigarettes and e-cigarette vapor. It can impair brain development up to age 25 and adversely affect brain regions responsible for attention, learning, mood and impulse control during adolescence. Nicotine addiction increases the risk of using other addictive substances in the future. New-generation tobacco products, including e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, are often marketed toward youth. Despite claims of being harmless, these products produce toxic and carcinogenic emissions. The 2019 EVALI (e-cigarette and vaping use associated lung injury) cases in the U.S. highlighted the serious risks of e-cigarette use for lung health.

Tobacco Industry Strategies

The tobacco industry targets youth to maintain profits and recruit new users. Young people are more susceptible to marketing tactics and are influenced by films, social media and peers. Historically, “light,” “slim,” and menthol cigarettes were used to reduce perceived harm, while modern strategies rely on e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products. Digital marketing and influencer promotions, combined with appealing flavors and flashy designs, increase the desirability of tobacco use among youth.

Global Situation

Every year on May 31, WHO campaigns aim to expose the deceptive tactics of the tobacco and nicotine industry. The theme for World No Tobacco Day 2025 is “Unmasking the Appeal,” focusing on deceptive marketing strategies targeting youth. Globally, 22,000 people die daily and over 8 million die annually from tobacco-related illnesses, with 7 million deaths directly attributable to tobacco use.^【2】 

World No Tobacco Day Activities in Türkiye

In Türkiye, World No Tobacco Day is observed through awareness-raising activities targeting especially children and youth. These activities provide education on the harms of tobacco and nicotine products, as well as the tobacco industry's influence. Yeşilay emphasizes the message “Tobacco poisons us and our planet.” The environmental effects of tobacco cultivation, including annual water consumption and deforestation, are highlighted. The addictive nature of e-cigarettes is emphasized and education programs are implemented to protect youth from these products.

Tobacco Control and Support Programs

Various programs are implemented in Türkiye to combat tobacco addiction. The “Bırakabilirsin” mobile app offers goal setting, tracking triggers, daily tips and information on financial savings for those wishing to quit smoking. Yeşilay Counseling Centers and the 115 Advice Line provide free support and intervention programs for tobacco addiction. School-based preventive and strengthening programs educate millions of students and adults.

Social, Economic and Environmental Effects of Tobacco

Tobacco use decreases quality of life and causes premature deaths. Passive smoking poses lethal risks to children and adults. Tobacco cultivation consumes 22 billion metric tons of water annually and results in the cutting of 600 million trees, creating significant environmental impacts. The tobacco industry negatively affects both human health and ecosystems.