In Italy, smoking remains a significant public health issue, despite a long history of anti-smoking legislation and declining smoking rates over the years. The impact of smoking on public health, particularly lung cancer and other respiratory diseases, has prompted a range of public policy measures aimed at reducing the number of smokers in the country.

The most notable of these is the Sirchia Law, named after the former Minister of Health, Girolamo Sirchia, which banned smoking in enclosed public spaces in 2005. This legislation has had a profound effect on Italian smoking habits, but challenges remain, and smoking continues to affect millions of Italians.

Despite decades of anti-smoking campaigns, Italy still has one of the highest rates of smoking in Europe. According to the latest data, around 20% of the Italian population continues to smoke regularly. While this figure represents a significant decline from previous decades, when the smoking rate was closer to 30%, it remains high compared to other European countries. Smoking is particularly prevalent among certain demographics, including those with lower socioeconomic status and young adults aged 18 to 30.

Recent figures show that about 10 million Italians are still regular smokers, with the majority being men, though the gap between male and female smokers has narrowed in recent years. Although the smoking rate has dropped over the past two decades, the number of smokers in Italy remains troublingly high, contributing to the nation's public health burden.

The Sirchia Law, enacted in 2005, was a landmark piece of legislation that banned smoking in all enclosed public spaces, including restaurants, bars, and workplaces. The law was a crucial step in reducing smoking-related exposure to secondhand smoke, which has been proven to cause serious health risks. It was also a key component of Italy’s broader strategy to combat smoking and reduce the associated health risks.

Before the introduction of the Sirchia Law, Italians smoked freely in many public spaces, and secondhand smoke was a major concern, especially in restaurants and cafes. The law was part of a broader movement in Europe to limit smoking in public spaces, following similar initiatives in countries such as Ireland and the United Kingdom. Over time, the Sirchia Law has had a significant impact on Italian smoking habits, with the number of smokers gradually declining since its implementation.

The reduction in smoking rates post-Sirchia Law can be attributed to several factors, including the deterrent effect of smoking bans in public spaces, public awareness campaigns, and increased taxes on tobacco products. For many Italians, the law has helped shift social norms around smoking, making it less acceptable to smoke in public places. Furthermore, the restrictions on smoking in places such as restaurants and bars have made it more inconvenient to smoke, encouraging many smokers to quit or reduce their consumption.

Despite the success of the Sirchia Law in reducing smoking rates, challenges persist. One of the most concerning trends is the increasing popularity of alternative tobacco products, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco. These products have been marketed as a less harmful alternative to traditional cigarettes, but their long-term health effects remain uncertain. According to some studies, e-cigarettes may be less harmful than smoking traditional cigarettes, but they are not without risks, particularly for young people who may be drawn to their fruity flavors and appealing marketing.

There is also concern that young people are increasingly turning to these alternative products in the absence of smoking bans or stricter regulations. The rise of vaping among teens and young adults is particularly troubling, with many experts warning that these products may serve as a gateway to smoking traditional cigarettes. As a result, the Italian government has moved to regulate these products more strictly, considering additional laws to limit their availability and use, especially among minors.

Another issue is the ongoing appeal of traditional tobacco products in some parts of the population. Despite the overall decline in smoking rates, there is still a significant proportion of the population—particularly older adults—who continue to smoke regularly. For these individuals, quitting smoking can be particularly challenging due to long-established habits and the addictive nature of nicotine.

Since January 1, 2025, in the city of Milan, the smoking ban has been extended "to all public or publicly accessible outdoor areas, including streets and roads, with the exception of isolated areas where it is possible to maintain a distance of 10 meters from other people.

The future of smoking in Italy will depend on continued public health efforts, further regulatory measures, and a shift in public perception. While the Sirchia Law has been successful in curbing smoking in public spaces, more needs to be done to address the ongoing issues of smoking among certain demographics and the rise of alternative tobacco products. Public health campaigns, education, and stricter regulations on smoking and vaping will play an essential role in reducing the smoking rate even further.

Ultimately, while smoking in Italy has declined over the years, it remains a significant public health challenge. As the country continues to grapple with the consequences of smoking, both in terms of health costs and social implications, the legacy of the Sirchia Law will continue to shape the nation’s efforts to combat smoking in the years to come.