California has led the nation in reducing smoking.1
For the past 30 years, California has been a national leader in the efforts to reduce the consumption of tobacco products, which is a major contributor to a range of chronic diseases. For example, between 1988 to 2019, adult cigarette smoking fell from 23.7% to 10%, and lung cancer mortality decreased by nearly half.1
California continues its efforts towards the elimination of commercial tobacco use by reducing existing tobacco-related disparities by age, gender, race/ethnicity, income, geography, and other factors. To this end, California needs to reduce youth uptake of tobacco products to prevent young people from ever starting to use tobacco products.2
These indicators track the percent of current tobacco use among adolescents and adults.
Tobacco Use – Adolescent
In 2024 (baseline year), adolescent tobacco use was 6.4%. The most recent data available indicate 6.4% (2024). We hope to reach a target of 2.4% or lower by 2034.
Baseline
6.4%
Target
2.4%
Tobacco Use – Adult
In 2022-2023 (baseline year), adult tobacco use was at 11.3%. The most recent data available indicate 11.3% (2022-2023). We hope to reach a target of 5.8% or lower by 2034.
Baseline
11.3%
Target
5.8%
Data Snapshot
In California, tobacco consumption decreases with higher levels of income and greater levels of education.
Adolescents and adults who live or attend school in rural areas are more likely to use tobacco products than those in urban or suburban areas.
Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander, Black or African American, and American Indian and Alaskan Native adults are more likely than other adults to use tobacco products. Among youth, the highest consumption of tobacco is reported by youth who identify as Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander or White.
Adult males are more likely to use tobacco products compared to adult females. However, gender diverse youth are more likely to use tobacco products compared to either cisgender young males or females, who have similar tobacco use.
LGBTQ+ youth and adults report higher use of tobacco compared to their counterparts.
Percent of Current Tobacco Use, Over Time
Percent of Current Tobacco Use, by Demographic Category
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