On May 15, 1987, the World Health Organization adopted a resolution. In which April 7, 1988 was demanded to be celebrated as the first World No Smoking Day. This date was chosen because it was the 40th anniversary of the World Health Organization. On May 17, 1989, the World Health Organization passed a resolution calling for May 31 to be observed annually as World No Tobacco Day. This day is celebrated every year on 31st May since 1989. The purpose of celebrating the World No Tobacco Day is to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco and to plan to reduce its use.
Tobacco use is a leading cause of preventable death worldwide, causing more than 8 million deaths each year. In addition to causing lung cancer and other respiratory diseases, tobacco use also increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other chronic illnesses. Tobacco use also has a significant economic impact, costing governments and individuals billions of dollars each year in healthcare costs and lost productivity.
Despite the well-known health risks associated with tobacco use, many people continue to smoke. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there are more than 1 billion smokers worldwide, with the majority living in low- and middle-income countries. This is due in part to the aggressive marketing tactics used by the tobacco industry, which targets vulnerable populations such as youth, women, and low-income individuals. Effective tobacco control policies can help reduce tobacco consumption and save lives.
The WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC), which was adopted in 2005, provides a comprehensive set of guidelines for reducing tobacco use. These guidelines include measures such as increasing taxes on tobacco products, banning tobacco advertising and promotion, and implementing smoke-free laws. Countries that have implemented these policies have seen significant reductions in tobacco use. For example, in Australia, which has some of the most comprehensive tobacco control policies in the world, smoking rates have declined from 24% in 1991 to 12% in 2019. Similarly, in Uruguay, which was the first country in the world to implement a comprehensive set of tobacco control measures, smoking rates have declined from 32% in 2005 to 21% in 2017.
However, there is still much work to be done. According to the WHO, only 13% of the world’s population is covered by comprehensive tobacco control laws. Many countries still allow tobacco advertising and promotion, and tobacco taxes are often too low to discourage consumption. In addition, the tobacco industry continues to use its considerable resources to influence public policy and undermine tobacco control efforts. Governments and individuals can take action to reduce tobacco use and improve public health. Governments can implement comprehensive tobacco control policies, increase tobacco taxes, and invest in smoking cessation programs.
Individuals can commit to quitting smoking and seek support from friends, family, and healthcare professionals. In conclusion, World Tobacco Day is an important opportunity to raise awareness about the health risks associated with tobacco use and advocate for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption. This year’s theme, “Commit to Quit,” encourages smokers to quit smoking and supports them in their efforts to do so. By working together, we can reduce tobacco use and improve public health.
