Trends in the Prevalence of Korean Adolescent Smokers According to Smoking Cessation Policy and COVID-19

This study evaluated the influence of smoking cessation policies and COVID-19 on the prevalence of smoking among Korean adolescents from 2011 to 2020. Based on the Korea Youth Risk Behavior Web-based Survey, trends in adolescent smoking behaviors were examined, including the impact of cigarette price increases, Pictorial Warning Labels (PWLs), and the onset of COVID-19. We used joinpoint regression analysis to discern annual changes in the prevalence of adolescent smokers. Results indicate that the implementation of increased cigarette prices and pictorial warnings was associated with a significant decrease in smoking prevalence among adolescents. We found a yearly reduction in smoking prevalence by 10.5% for cigarette-only smokers, 10.3% for e-cigarette-only smokers, and 9.2% for those who used both. The onset of COVID-19 further accelerated the decline in adolescent smoking. The findings suggest that the Korean government's smoking cessation strategies and pandemic-related changes have effectively reduced smoking rates among adolescents.