Health watchdog to carry out tobacco affordability study

The Health Protection Agency of Ireland (HIQA) has commenced an investigation into the affordability of tobacco products within the country. The watchdog explained that the cost of tobacco serves as a significant factor in determining the rate at which individuals start smoking and maintain the habit. This study will compare how tobacco affordability is assessed in Ireland against that of other European Union nations and the United Kingdom.

The World Health Organization (WHO) identifies high taxation, surpassing both inflation and income growth, as one of the most potent strategies for curbing tobacco usage. According to a recent report by the Royal College of Physicians of Ireland, the prevalence of smoking among individuals aged 15 and above in Ireland has remained stable, fluctuating between 17% and 18% over the years 2019 to 2025.

HIQA emphasized that government-imposed tax hikes have added a 24% premium to the price of a 20-cigarette pack since 2020, while average weekly earnings have risen by 28% during the same timeframe. Michelle O'Neill, HIQA's deputy Director of Health Technology and Assessment, stated that as affordability deteriorates, the initiation of smoking and overall tobacco consumption decline, while quitting attempts increase.

She added that the HIQA analysis will take into account various affordability indicators, such as household disposable income, wage growth, and household expenditure, alongside GDP, to provide a comprehensive understanding of the affordability of tobacco for the average Irish household.