As we commemorate World No Tobacco Day, the critical importance of more robust policies and regulations to combat the global tobacco epidemic becomes evident sensitizing governments, policymakers, and stakeholders to prioritize the implementation and enforcement of stringent tobacco control measures.
— On May 31, the global community observes World No Tobacco Day, an annual initiative to raise awareness about the detrimental effects of tobacco use and promote a tobacco-free lifestyle. This day highlights the importance of healthy lifestyle habits and underscores the urgent need to combat tobacco addiction for the betterment of public health.
Discussing the significance of the day, Dr. Veena Aggarwal, CMD and Group Editor-in-chief, IJCP Group of Publications and Medtalks, Trustee at Heart Care Foundation of India, said, “World No Tobacco Day serves as a catalyst for governments and policymakers to reinforce tobacco control measures encompassing strong anti-tobacco legislation, taxation policies, packaging regulations, and comprehensive public awareness campaigns. These actions play a crucial role in reducing tobacco consumption, protecting vulnerable populations, and creating a healthier environment for all.”
Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable diseases and premature deaths worldwide. According to the Global Adult Tobacco Survey India, more than 267 million adults (15 years and above) in India (29% of all adults) are tobacco users, with the smokeless form being highly prevalent among the users.. Tobacco consumption is responsible for a multitude of health issues, including lung cancer, heart disease, respiratory disorders, and other chronic illnesses. World No Tobacco Day serves as a reminder of the adversities of tobacco use on individuals, families, and communities, and it encourages individuals to take action to protect their health and society as a whole.
There is an urgent need for robust, comprehensive policies and their strict adherence that target every aspect of the tobacco industry. Strong anti-tobacco legislation, including smoke-free laws, advertising restrictions, and packaging regulations is crucial to curb tobacco consumption and protect individuals from the ill effects of secondhand smoke. Additionally, taxation policies that increase the price of tobacco products have proven to be an effective deterrent, particularly among vulnerable populations, including youth and low-income individuals.
According to Dr. Veena Aggarwal robust public awareness campaigns are crucial in dealing with this menace and serve as a foundation for tobacco eradication. Educating the public about the dangers of tobacco use and motivating them to quit can help extensively in fighting tobacco abuse.”imparting messages lthrough fun and games is easily acceptable and we at HCFI strive to do this through various modules like customised snakes and ladders game, booklets and cartoons and in the annual perfect health mela organised by the HCFI for the past 30 years. A simple message like – even animals don’t eat or infest a tobacco plant as they also know how harmful it is ‘are very effective for public awareness specially if it endorsed by celebrities.
Recognizing the persistent threat tobacco poses to public health, HCFI urges governments, policymakers, and stakeholders to prioritize implementing and enforcing stringent tobacco control measures.
To support these initiatives, collaborative efforts of governments, NGOs, and healthcare organizations are imperative to foster dialogue, exchange best practices, and advocate for more robust tobacco control policies. Through partnerships, research, and public engagement, we can create a unified front in the fight against tobacco use and its devastating consequences.