Young adults are defined here as people between the age of 18 and 39 years.
1.4.1 Latest estimates of prevalence of smoking among young adults
The 2022–23 National Drug Strategy Household Survey examined smoking prevalence among young adults,1 as shown in Table 1.4.1 by age group and gender.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics also collects data on smoking status among Australians aged 15 years and over. In 2022, the prevalence of daily smoking among 18–24 year olds was 7.3%, and 11.1% were current smokers. Among 25–34 year olds, 10.9% were daily smokers and 12.9% were current smokers.2
1.4.2 Trends in smoking prevalence among young adults
Table 1.4. 2 shows smoking prevalence data from the AIHW’s National Drug Strategy Household Survey for men and women in three age groups spanning young adulthood to early middle age, between 2001 and 2022–23—see also Figure 1.5.1.
Relevant news and research
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References
1. Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. National Drug Strategy Household Survey 2022–2023. Canberra: AIHW, 2024. Available from: https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/illicit-use-of-drugs/national-drug-strategy-household-survey
2. Australian Bureau of Statistics. National Health Survey. 2022. Available from: https://www.abs.gov.au/statistics/health/health-conditions-and-risks/national-health-survey/2022