U.S. smoking rates plummet to historic lows after decades of decline

Smoking rates in the U.S. have fallen dramatically over the past six decades. In the mid-1960s, 42% of adults smoked, but by 2025, that figure had dropped to just 9%. This sharp decline is seen as one of the biggest public health successes in modern history. Cigarette smoking remains the leading cause of preventable death in the U.S. It increases the risk of lung cancer, heart disease and stroke. Despite this, efforts to reduce smoking have made a huge impact.

The ‘Tips from Former Smokers’ campaign played a key role in cutting smoking rates. It helped over 1 million Americans quit and saved more than $7.3 billion in healthcare costs. However, recent budget cuts to the CDC’s Office on Smoking and Health have weakened these prevention programmes.

While traditional smoking has declined, e-cigarette use among adults stayed steady at around 7% in 2025. The drop in smoking has already saved millions of lives and billions in medical expenses. The fall in smoking rates marks a major achievement for public health. Fewer smokers means lower healthcare costs and longer, healthier lives. Yet, funding cuts to prevention campaigns could slow future progress.