Italians smoke less than other Europeans

(ANSA) - Brussels, May 29 – Italians rank at the bottom of European cigarette smokers but tobacco sales have increased in the past decade, according to a Eurobarometer survey published Friday.
    Italian tobacco users account for 21% of the country’s population, less than the European average of 26%. Greece (38%) and Bulgaria (35%) have the most smokers in Europe. In Italy, recent reports show cigarette sales have increased for the first time in 10 years even though the smoking population has remained stable.
    "This data coupled with the fact that for 10 years the percentage of smokers has not changed tells us that prevention policies in Italy have failed," Superior Institutes of Health (ISS) Research Director Roberta Pacifici said.