Smoking prevalence remained stable in 2020, with social inequalities still very pronounced

Following a decline in smoking in mainland France—with 1.9 million fewer daily smokers between 2014 and 2019—prevalence stabilized in 2020, with 25.5% of the population smoking daily, according to the latest data published by Santé publique France. Against the backdrop of an unprecedented health, psychological, economic, and social crisis, one of the challenges is to re-establish a downward trend and further strengthen efforts to combat smoking among the most vulnerable populations. Indeed, social inequalities remain very pronounced.

Each year, Santé publique France estimates the prevalence of smoking and its change compared to the previous year. This measurement plays a major role in guiding public policies implemented in the fight against smoking.

According to the results of the Santé publique France Barometer¹, published in the BEH, more than three in ten adults aged 18–75 reported smoking (31.8%) and one in four reported smoking daily (25.5%) in 2020, with no significant change compared to 2019.

The prevalence of daily smoking increased significantly among the third of the population with the lowest incomes (from 30% in 2019 to 33% in 2020). This increase is primarily due to a rise between 2019 and early 2020, before the first lockdown, with a stabilization observed after the lockdown.

Social inequalities thus remained very pronounced in 2020, with a 15-point gap between the lowest and highest income groups.

Campaign for "Smoke-Free Public Spaces"

The expansion of smoke-free environments is one of the priorities of the National Tobacco Control Program (PNLT) 2018–2022. In this regard, the Ministry of Solidarity and Health welcomes the rollout of smoke-free public spaces across the country, thanks to the combined commitment and action of the State, local governments, and associations, with support from the Fund to Combat Addictions (FLCA).

As key players in this movement, a growing number of local governments—particularly municipalities—are choosing to transform certain open public spaces within their jurisdictions (beaches, parks, gardens, etc.) into healthier, tobacco-free areas. These spaces are selected to become smoke-free: they include sites where children and adolescents congregate.

Thus, since 2019, with the involvement of nearly 500 municipalities, more than 3^,700 new smoke-free spaces² have been established: over 100 beaches and as many sports facilities, 500 school grounds, as well as parks, stadiums, and more.

Through the “My Smoke-Free Terrace”³ initiative, the commitment of restaurant owners—who are keen to prioritize open-air terraces where people can enjoy a pleasant, social experience without being bothered by tobacco smoke—is also being highlighted and promoted.

The reopening of these social spaces thus gives us the opportunity to improve our quality of life. This is notably the goal of the new communication campaign led by Santé publique France to promote “smoke-free living” and to highlight, for smokers wishing to quit, the remote support services provided by Tabac Info Service, whose website has just been completely revamped.

A campaign celebrating life without tobacco

The denormalization of tobacco is underway, as evidenced by the decline in consumption in France in recent years. For this reason, from May 31 to June 30, Santé publique France—notably with the support of the Fund for the Fight Against Addictions—is supporting and amplifying the movement to denormalize tobacco, already underway in our society, through a new campaign.

In a 30-second TV spot, a tobacco-free life is presented as a desirable norm. It is aimed at the general public, celebrates everyone’s victories over smoking, and welcomes people to a tobacco-free life. This spot is available in three 10-second videos and is broadcast on television and via digital video (on computers, mobile devices, or tablets). The initiative will be complemented by a print and digital out-of-home (DOOH⁴) poster campaign across the country.

Finally, a digital campaign featuring web banners and social media posts (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter) and a special initiative in print and digital media are also planned to highlight life without tobacco through testimonials from former smokers.

Tabac Info Service, a leader in smoking cessation

This campaign also serves as an opportunity to unveil Tabac Info Service’s new identity—more modern and rooted in users’ daily lives—which highlights the benefits of a tobacco-free life with a strong promise: “Welcome to a tobacco-free life.”

Tabac Info Service is an information and smoking cessation support service that answers all questions about smoking and quitting. Tabac Info Service also offers free personalized support provided by tobacco specialists at 39 89. Tabac Info Service is also available online via its website and Facebook page, or through the app of the same name, developed by the French National Health Insurance.