Group Urges Protecting Youth From Tobacco Products
World No Tobacco Day highlights health risks linked to tobacco use and advocates for policies to reduce consumption.
LILONGWE, Malawi— A women's health organization is calling for stepped-up efforts to protect children and young people from the harms of tobacco use ahead of World No Tobacco Day on May 31, writes Gift Kaimira.
The Women's Coalition Against Cancer said Thursday that tobacco remains a major contributor to preventable deaths worldwide, including about 12% of heart disease deaths.
It causes over 7 million deaths annually.
"Tobacco is one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide, claiming over 7 million lives each year," said Maud Mwakasungula, the coalition's executive director.
"It is well known that tobacco use is associated with a wide range of cancers due to the numerous carcinogens present in tobacco smoke."
These include cancers affecting the oral cavity, lungs, liver, stomach, bowel, ovaries and certain forms of leukemia, she said. Smoking alone accounts for 85% of lung cancer deaths.
Mwakasungula urged the government and stakeholders to implement measures protecting people, especially youth, from tobacco company marketing tactics.
She said children are particularly vulnerable, and the government has "a great responsibility" to uphold their rights under the U.N. Convention on the Rights of the Child.
World No Tobacco Day highlights health risks linked to tobacco use and advocates for policies to reduce consumption.
This year's theme is protecting youth from industry exploitation and preventing them from tobacco use.