Smoking Behavior Among Secondary School Students — China, 2021

Abstract

What is already known about this topic? In 2019, China CDC conducted the National Youth Tobacco Survey among secondary school students, and the prevalence rates of ever, current, and frequent smoking were 17.9%, 5.9%, and 1.8%, respectively. What is added by this report? The prevalence rate of cigarette use in males decreased largely from 2019 to 2021 in China, while it increased in 18 provincial-level administrative divisions (PLADs) for females. The tobacco control situation remains challenging among vocational senior high school (VSHS) students. Significant geographical disparities existed in cigarette use. What are the implications for public health practice? Targeted tobacco control policies aimed at VSHS students are needed, specifically those PLADs with higher smoking rates. Additionally, close attention should be paid to female smokers.