8 Million Die Each Year, with Second-Hand Smoke Causing 1.2 Million Additional Deaths
WHO Calls for Worldwide Ban on Flavoured Tobacco to Protect Youths from Addiction
The World Health Organisation (WHO) says that over 40 million teenagers between 13 and 15 years old use tobacco around the world. This has raised concerns about youth addiction, especially since these products are made to attract young people.
The agency also warned that tobacco causes more than eight million deaths each year, including 1.2 million people who die from being exposed to second-hand smoke.
In a statement released in May 2026 before World No Tobacco Day, WHO urged governments to ban flavoured tobacco and nicotine products. The agency said that sweet and fruity flavours are made to attract young people and get them addicted.
Officials pointed out that products like e-cigarettes, nicotine pouches, and hookahs are causing a new wave of addiction among teenagers.
“Flavours are not innovation, they are manipulation,” WHO experts said. They explained that companies use bright packaging, influencer marketing, and lifestyle branding to make nicotine use look appealing to young people.
Flavours such as menthol and bubble gum hide the harsh taste of nicotine, making these products more attractive and addictive for young people.
The agency pointed out that about 160 countries do not have specific rules for nicotine pouches, which leaves millions of young people at risk.
Some countries, like Belgium, Denmark, and Lithuania, have banned flavoured tobacco. However, WHO says that much stronger action is needed worldwide and it should happen soon.
WHO recommends banning all flavours in tobacco and nicotine products, stopping advertising and sponsorship aimed at young people, making public spaces smoke- and vape-free, and improving oversight to close loopholes used by the industry.
This warning is especially important for countries like Nigeria, where many young people are at risk.
Even though the National Tobacco Control Act was passed in 2015, weak enforcement means that flavoured nicotine products are still easy to find in music videos, fashion trends, and social media promotions.
WHO’s urgent message shows that flavoured nicotine products are creating a global health crisis. The agency warns that these products are made to get young people addicted for life. WHO is calling for stronger bans, better enforcement, and more public awareness to protect the next generation.
