First tobacco-free generation in Europe – A lost cause? Latest Global Youth Tobacco Survey data from Poland and the CEE region

Background

Tobacco use remains a significant public health issue among adolescents worldwide, now exacerbated by the rise of alternative nicotine products like electronic cigarettes and heated tobacco. Monitoring these trends is essential for effective public health response. This study presents the latest data on tobacco and electronic cigarette use, as well as secondhand smoke exposure, among Polish adolescents aged 13–15.

Methods

In 2022 we conducted a cross-sectional study within the framework of the Global Youth Tobacco Survey (GYTS), which uses a standardized two-stage sampling methodology. Data were collected from a nationally representative sample of 3573 students aged 13–15 in Poland. The survey assessed current and ever-use of conventional and alternative tobacco products, secondhand smoke exposure, and attitudes toward tobacco. Weighted estimates were used to ensure national representativeness.

Results

Among Polish adolescents, 17.1 % reported current use of any tobacco product, with a similar prevalence among boys (17.3 %) and girls (16.9 %). Current electronic cigarette use was notably high at 22.3 %, with higher usage among girls (23.4 %) than boys (21.2 %). Secondhand smoke exposure at home affected 28.8 % of students. Comparison with previous GYTS data indicates declining traditional tobacco use but a rise in alternative product use.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the need for updated tobacco control policies in Poland that address both traditional and alternative nicotine products. The high prevalence of electronic cigarette use among adolescents is particularly concerning and calls for targeted interventions and public health education aimed at reducing youth access and appeal of these products.