Clear Lungs, Bright Future: World No Tobacco Day 2025

Every year on May 31st, World No Tobacco Day shines a spotlight on one of the world’s most pressing public health concerns: tobacco use. This year’s theme, “Protecting Youth from Tobacco Industry Manipulation,” is more important than ever. Tobacco companies are finding new, creative ways to reach our children and teens, and it’s up to the parents, educators, and changemakers to push back with the power of awareness and action.

The Real Cost of Tobacco: By the Numbers

• 8 million people die each year due to tobacco-related causes.
• Of these, 1.3 million are non-smokers affected by second-hand smoke.
• Globally, 1 in 5 people aged 15 and above use some form of tobacco.
• Nearly 50 million children (aged 13–15) worldwide use tobacco products.

In India alone, 267 million adults are tobacco users, most commonly using smokeless tobacco like gutkha and khaini. The age of first use is dropping fast. In some Indian districts, kids as young as 9 years old are trying tobacco for the first time. That’s heartbreaking, but the good news is that it’s preventable.

How Do Tobacco Companies Target Youth?

Tobacco companies are smart marketers. Here’s how they draw in young users:

• Flavored options that taste like candy
• Social media campaigns with influencers and cool aesthetics
• Packaging that looks like tech gadgets or sweets
• Product placements in movies and online videos

This kind of manipulation isn't just unethical, it's dangerous. The younger someone starts, the harder it is for them to quit, and the higher their health risks.

What Can You Do?

Every small action adds up to big change. Here’s how you can help:

• Talk to children early about the dangers of tobacco.
• Say no to tobacco—at home, in the office, or social gatherings.
• Encourage anyone who smokes to speak to a doctor or call a quitline.
• Support local awareness campaigns!

A Smoke-Free Life is a Blissful Life

Tobacco steals health, happiness, and years from people of all ages. On World No Tobacco Day, let’s make a collective vow to stand against it. Let’s give our children clean air, strong hearts, and tobacco-free futures.

At Spreading Bliss Foundation, we believe that a tobacco-free world is possible — and we're here to make it happen by sharing stories, tools, and inspiration that drive awareness and change.