Smoking in Norway

Smoking in Norway is banned indoors in public buildings and aboard aircraft or other means of public transport.^[1] In addition, it is illegal to smoke in outdoor locations that are close to children's schools and hospitals, and it is illegal to advertise, promote or sponsor any tobacco products to the public; however, this law does not apply to tobacconist shops which are allowed to advertise tobacco related products.^[2]

Enforcement of smoking bans is strong in Norway

The legal age to buy tobacco is 18 years in Norway, but 10%-12% of 15-year-olds smoke daily or weekly, and 31% of adults smoke daily or occasionally. The overall proportion of smokers is decreasing.^[3]

Approximately 17% of adult men and 4% of adult women use snus daily or occasionally

In Norway in 2008, approximately 17% of adult men used snus daily or occasionally, while 4% of adult women used snus daily or occasionally.^[3] In secondary schools in 2000–2004, 21% of boys and 4% of girls used snus daily or occasionally.^[3] Many people both smoke and use snus.^[3]

The proportion of smokers is higher among immigrants to Norway than among ethnic Norwegians.^[3] The highest proportion of smokers can be found among immigrants from Turkey, Iran, Vietnam and Pakistan.^[3]

See also

• Health in Norway