The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has released new data indicating that the cigarette smoking rate among U.S. adults has reached a historic low. According to the survey, only 9% of adults reported being current smokers in 2025, a significant decrease from the mid-1960s when 42% of adults smoked.

Decline in Smoking Rates

This decline is attributed to a combination of factors including increased cigarette taxes, higher prices for tobacco products, widespread smoking bans, and public education campaigns. These efforts have collectively contributed to changing the social acceptability of smoking in public spaces.

The CDC’s survey, which included responses from over 24,200 adults, defined current smokers as those who have smoked at least 100 cigarettes in their lifetime and currently smoke every day or on some days. The findings highlight a continued downward trend, with the smoking rate falling below 10% for the first time in 2024.

Impact of Smoking Prevention Efforts

Yolonda Richardson, president and CEO of the Campaign for Tobacco-Free Kids, emphasized the importance of ongoing smoking prevention efforts. She noted that these initiatives have saved millions of lives and billions in healthcare costs. However, she also pointed out setbacks due to budget cuts during President Donald Trump’s administration, which eliminated the CDC’s Office on Smoking and Health and its ‘Tips from Former Smokers’ campaign.

Richardson highlighted that the ‘Tips’ campaign alone helped over 1 million Americans quit smoking and saved more than $7.3 billion in healthcare costs. She called for the restoration and continuation of these critical efforts to further reduce smoking-related diseases and healthcare expenses nationwide.

Rise of Electronic Cigarettes

While traditional cigarette smoking has declined, the use of electronic cigarettes has been on the rise among adults, stabilizing at about 7% in 2025. This trend suggests a shift in smoking habits, with some adults turning to electronic alternatives.

The continued decline in smoking rates is a significant public health achievement, reflecting the success of comprehensive tobacco control strategies. As efforts to combat smoking continue, the focus remains on sustaining these gains and addressing emerging challenges in tobacco use.

Original reporting: WTVQ (Lexington) — read the source article.