World No Tobacco Day is observed annually on 31 May by the World Health Organization (WHO) to raise awareness about the health risks associated with tobacco use and advocate for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption worldwide.
With the theme of ‘We need food, not tobacco’, this year’s campaign will raise awareness about alternative crop production and marketing opportunities for tobacco farmers and encourage them to grow sustainable, nutritious crops. WHO objectives are to:
- mobilize governments to end subsidies on tobacco growing and use of savings for crop substitution programs that support farmers to switch and improve food security and nutrition.
- raise awareness in tobacco farming communities about the benefits of moving away from tobacco and growing sustainable crops.
- support efforts to combat desertification and environmental degradation by decreasing tobacco farming.
- expose industry efforts to obstruct sustainable livelihood work.
Global Impact
Tobacco use remains one of the leading causes of preventable deaths worldwide. According to the WHO, tobacco kills more than 8 million people each year, with around 7 million being direct tobacco users and approximately 1.2 million exposed to secondhand smoke. The burden of tobacco-related diseases such as lung cancer, heart disease, and respiratory disorders weighs heavily on individuals, families, and healthcare systems globally.
Progress and Initiatives
World No Tobacco Day serves as a platform to celebrate the progress achieved in tobacco control efforts. Through concerted efforts by the government, public health organizations, and civil society, significant strides have been made in implementing comprehensive tobacco control measures. Many countries have adopted and enforced smoke-free laws, increased taxes on tobacco products, implemented graphic health warnings, and launched anti-smoking campaigns.
Empowering Individuals to Quit
Encouraging smokers to quit smoking and supporting them in their journey towards tobacco-free life, has been the key and constant objective of World No Tobacco Day each year. This year WHO is focusing on the governments of the country to reduce tobacco farming and thereby minimize the amount of tobacco consumption.
As we look ahead, the road to a smoke-free future may not be without challenges. The rise of emerging tobacco products, such as e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products, poses new concerns. World No Tobacco Day serves as a reminder of the health risks posed by tobacco and the importance of taking proactive measures to combat tobacco use. It is an opportunity for individuals, communities and government to come together, and work towards creating a tobacco-free world.
