ikkerøykere

Ikkerøykere are individuals who do not use tobacco products. The term typically refers to those who abstain from regular or any tobacco use, including cigarettes, cigars, pipes, and often e-cigarettes. The category is distinguished from former smokers, who have previously smoked but currently do not, and from occasional or experimental smokers, who try tobacco from time to time. In research and surveys, definitions of "non-smoker" vary by country and may specify lifetime abstinence or no use within a defined period, such as the past year.

Health and risks: Non-smokers have a substantially lower risk for tobacco-related diseases compared with current smokers. They may still be exposed to secondhand smoke in homes or public spaces; such exposure is linked to adverse health effects and is a major driver of public policy to restrict smoking in public places.

Societal and policy context: Many countries implement laws and regulations that reduce smoking prevalence, such as taxes, advertising restrictions, and bans in workplaces and indoor public venues. These measures can influence social norms, making non-smoking the default expectation in many settings. Non-smokers may benefit from and advocate for tobacco-control programs, including cessation support for current smokers.

Demographics and trends: The share of non-smokers varies by region, age group, and culture, and has generally risen in many high-income countries in recent decades due to sustained tobacco control efforts.