Local admins can help keep smoking rate down

Thailand has reduced its smoking rate by 48% over the past 33 years but tobacco use still places a heavy economic burden on low-income households, said the Action on Smoking and Health Foundation (ASH) during World No-Tobacco Day yesterday.

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Citing data from tobacco consumption surveys conducted between 1991 and 2024, chairman Dr Prakit Vathesatogkit said the smoking rate among Thai adults dropped from 32% in 1991 to 16% in 2024.

The biggest decline occurred in the northern region, where smoking declined by 58%, he said, adding that in contrast, the southern region saw the smallest drop at 29%.

"In low-income households earning between 1,043 and 6,532 baht per month, individuals spend an average of 748 baht monthly on cigarette packs, 127 baht on roll-your-own tobacco and 718 baht on e-cigarettes.