With the 2026 theme, 'Unmask the appeal: counter the addiction to tobacco and nicotine,' the institutions aim to dismantle attraction strategies specifically targeting young people. The UCO, through its Vice-Rectorate for Health, Culture, and Well-being, has been a pioneer in smoking prevention, holding bronze-level certification as a Smoke-Free Space.

Actions promoted by the university include awareness campaigns, the installation of informative signage, and smoking cessation programs. During these events, participatory initiatives such as measuring carbon monoxide in exhaled air and the symbolic exchange of cigarettes for nuts have been carried out, with the collaboration of Sagacor.

The World Health Organization (WHO) continues its international work against smoking, publishing guidelines to facilitate quitting products like cigarettes, vapes, or heated tobacco. In Spain, data from the Ministry of Health's Survey on Alcohol and Drugs (Edades) show historic lows in tobacco consumption, although it remains an avoidable cause of mortality.

The increase in the use of e-cigarettes and vaping devices among young people is a concern, prompting new regulations. The Government of Spain has launched the Comprehensive Plan for the Prevention and Control of Smoking 2024-2027, which includes regulating these devices, limiting flavors, and expanding smoke-free spaces. Numerous Spanish universities are promoting Smoke-Free Campus models to foster healthier environments.