West Virginia holds the distinction of being the US state with the highest smoking rate.
As of 2023, data indicates that West Virginia leads the nation in the proportion of its adult population who smoke. Approximately 20 percent of all adults in the state were smokers at this time, making it the state with the highest prevalence.
States with High Smoking Rates
While West Virginia is at the top, several other states also report higher-than-average smoking rates. The trend across the United States over the past decades has shown a significant decrease in the overall number of smokers. However, certain regions continue to experience higher rates compared to the national average.
Here's a look at the states identified with some of the highest adult smoking rates:
| State | Approximate Adult Smoking Rate (as of 2023) |
|---|---|
| West Virginia | 20% |
| Tennessee | High (among highest) |
| Louisiana | High (among highest) |
The consistent efforts in public health initiatives and education are aimed at further reducing smoking rates across all states, contributing to improved overall public health.
