Recent findings from the Fiji STEPS Survey 2025 have ignited concerns regarding tobacco use across the nation, revealing significant disparities in consumption based on gender, age, and region. The Eastern Division has emerged as a particular area of concern, showcasing the highest levels of current smoking in the country.
The survey data paints a complex regional picture. Notably, the Western Division boasts the highest percentage of individuals who have never smoked, standing at 57.6 percent. Conversely, the Central and Northern Divisions exhibit varied patterns, with the latter experiencing a higher prevalence of daily smoking.
The statistics are alarming in the Eastern Division, where only 24.1 percent of residents reported never smoking. While 15.7 percent are former smokers, this region displays the highest rates of tobacco use nationwide, with 26.3 percent identified as non-daily smokers and a staggering 33.9 percent classified as daily smokers.
Health experts emphasize the critical need for proactive measures targeted at promoting abstinence from tobacco across all age groups. “These findings highlight the importance of early intervention across the life course. Smoking often peaks among younger adults and declines with age, underscoring the need for health promotion programs targeting younger populations,” noted the report.
Furthermore, the data indicates that as individuals age, there is an incremental increase in the likelihood of smokers receiving advice from healthcare providers about quitting. Approximately 56 percent of smokers reported attempting to quit, with similar rates of attempts observed across various age demographics.
This vital information serves not only to inform but also to motivate health authorities in Fiji to intensify their public health strategies aimed at reducing tobacco use, especially within at-risk populations. As awareness grows and interventions are implemented, there is hope for a significant decline in smoking rates across the nation.
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