Date: May 31, 2025
Theme: “Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Products”

Every year on May 31st, the world pauses to observe World No Tobacco Day—a global initiative led by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and advocate for effective policies to reduce consumption. This year’s campaign in 2025 is sharper and more urgent than ever.

What Does “Unmasking the Appeal” Mean?

The 2025 theme, “Unmasking the Appeal,” shines a spotlight on the deceptive tactics used by tobacco and nicotine companies to attract new users—especially youth. These industries often cloak harmful products in appealing flavors, stylish packaging, and social media marketing to make them look trendy, harmless, or even healthy.

From colorful vapes and e-cigarettes to flavored chewing tobacco, the aim is clear: get young people hooked before they understand the consequences.

The Reality Behind the Smoke

Tobacco remains one of the leading causes of preventable death worldwide. It claims over 8 million lives each year, with more than 1 million of those deaths occurring in India alone. Despite decades of anti-smoking efforts, tobacco use is still aggressively marketed through subtle, culturally embedded tactics.

The tobacco industry’s influence doesn’t just harm individual health—it places an enormous burden on families, communities, and healthcare systems.

WHO