Most Canadians and most Albertans do not smoke. Only 19% of Canadians aged 15 and older smoke. The smoking rate for Albertans aged 15 and older is 21%. Young adults aged 20 to 24 have the highest smoking rate of any age group in Alberta: 30%. Smoking rates also tend to be higher among Aboriginal people in Alberta.
The smoking rate among teens in Alberta (aged 15 to 19) is now at 15%. Among teens aged 15 to 19, boys are more likely to smoke than girls.
Most teens say pressure from friends who smoke is the number one reason teens start to smoke. Teens are also more likely to get or buy smokes from friends than from anywhere else. The good news is that teen smokers are the age group most open to quitting.
Quick facts
- 85% of Albertans between the ages of 15 and 19 are currently non-smokers.
- The smoking rate among youth aged 15 to 19 is now at 15%.
- The highest rate in Alberta is among young adults aged 20 to 24 (30%).
- Most Alberta smokers start smoking before they turn 20 years old.
- Teen smokers are the age group most open to quitting.
