An edition affected by the health crisis

Despite the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and the second lockdown,

• more than 125,000 smokers signed up for the 2020 edition of #MoisSansTabac;

• more than 85,000 people signed up for the new “40-Day Program,” the daily email campaign developed specifically for this edition, which offered daily tips, activities, and challenges to support participants;

• more than 123,000 people downloaded the Tabac info service e-coaching app, designed by the French National Health Insurance in partnership with Santé publique France and with the support of the Société Francophone de Tabacologie;

• 4,405 organizations created an account and placed an order on the partner website.

“In the midst of this health crisis, which is causing worry and anxiety, we warmly congratulate all smokers who decided to sign up and participate in #MoisSansTabac. The use of all the support tools put in place reinforces our belief that support is essential for quitting smoking. As such, healthcare professionals remain committed to helping smokers in their efforts to quit. The Tabac Info Service is also here to listen to them and assist them,” explains Viêt Nguyen Thanh, head of the Addictions Unit at Santé publique France.

The fight against smoking remains a major public health issue

The current health crisis must not make us forget that taking care of one’s health in all its dimensions is essential. Unfortunately, COVID-19 is not the only health threat. Smoking is the leading cause of preventable death, with an estimated 75,000 deaths in 2015 in mainland France. Furthermore, the CoviPrev survey conducted during the first lockdown showed that the health crisis could have adverse effects on tobacco use1.

The fight against smoking is a priority in Santé publique France’s program. In 2021, new campaigns are already planned to encourage smokers to quit. The next initiative is scheduled for January to support smokers in their New Year’s resolutions.