Tobacco industry's sly promotion tactics must be countered with force
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Each year on May 31, the world observes World No Tobacco Day, a vital occasion to confront one of the most preventable global health threats. Launched by the World Health Organization in 1988, the initiative mobilised action against the tobacco industry's deadly influence.
Appropriately, this year's campaign will focus on the industry's promotion of nicotine products. It puts the spotlight squarely on how tobacco companies continue to lure young consumers and entrench addiction under the guise of modernity and choice.
Tobacco remains a global killer, claiming
over 8 million lives annually and causing untold suffering through diseases such as cancer, heart disease and chronic respiratory conditions. The toll is not limited to smokers – second-hand smoke endangers millions more.
Over the years, countries have embraced the WHO Framework Convention on Tobacco Control, banning public smoking, mandating warning labels and restricting advertising. However, weak enforcement and legal loopholes persist.
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