Pakistan's Speaker Urges Collective Action Against Tobacco Use

Strategic Insights -

Pakistani Speaker Dr. Fehmida Mirza has emphasized the importance of a joint effort to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use, which can cause numerous health problems. On the occasion of World No Tobacco Day, being commemorated tomorrow, she appealed to the public, non-governmental organizations, and government health departments to work together to combat the rising trend of tobacco use among youth, women, and girls.

Key Takeaways:

  • Dr. Fehmida Mirza, Speaker of the National Assembly of Pakistan, has called for a collective effort to raise awareness about the health risks associated with tobacco use.
  • She stressed the need to abandon tobacco use to minimize health risks and highlighted the dangers of tobacco smoking and marketing to women and girls.
  • The Speaker emphasized the importance of strict implementation of tobacco control laws to prevent smoking in public places and transportation across the country.
  • According to World Health Organization (WHO) statistics, women comprise 20% of the 1 billion smokers in the world.
  • Dr. Mirza called upon health departments, NGOs, and the media to initiate an aggressive media campaign to raise awareness against tobacco use.
  • The Speaker also urged tobacco companies not to attempt to lure people into life-time nicotine dependence.

Statistics:

  • 20% of the 1 billion smokers worldwide are women (WHO statistics).
  • Tobacco use can have lethal effects on the health of women, affecting the household as a whole.
  • The use of tobacco is on the rise among youth, women, and girls.

Sources:

  • National Assembly of Pakistan
  • World Health Organization (WHO)