Tobacco use and exposure to ETS remain the main causes of respiratory diseases, both in adults and children. It places significant burden on both individual and public health, particularly in vulnerable groups such as children and people of lower socioeconomic status. Tobacco smoking is still the most preventable cause of premature death and respiratory diseases and it interferes with most of the sustainable development goals. Moreover, tobacco smoking is a chronic dependence disorder that needs a systematic diagnostic approach and treatment. Most smokers want to quit, but although safe, evidence-based nicotine-dependence treatments exist, they remain poorly implemented in medical education and practice. The content and emissions of cigarettes and their impact on health are well known. By stronger enforcement of existing tobacco control measures, the tobacco epidemic can be curbed.