Feature

‘Creating smoke-free environments is a critical aspect of tobacco control’

Workplaces, public spaces and educational institutions should strictly enforce smoke-free policies to protect non-smokers

Dr Lana E. Lyngdoh Nongbri

World No Tobacco Day is an important event observed every year on May 31 to spread awareness of the tobacco epidemic and the preventable death and disease it causes. This year’s event focuses on educating the youth about the dangers of tobacco use and promoting a tobacco-free environment.

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In India, tobacco consumption remains a significant public health concern, this day holds particular significance. It serves as a reminder to the nation to evaluate progress, reinforce efforts, and strive for a tobacco-free society.

In Meghalaya, 47% of adults (age 15+ as per the Global Adult Tobacco Survey, 2017) and 33.6% of youths (aged 13-15 as per the survey) consume tobacco (smoke and/or smokeless).

The consequences of tobacco use in Meghalaya are reflected in the burden of tobacco-related diseases. The state witnesses a high incidence of oral cancers, respiratory disorders, and cardiovascular diseases which are directly attributed to tobacco consumption.

Tobacco-related deaths in the state exceed 8,000 per annum. The health impact is not limited to individuals alone but extends to families and communities, placing a strain on healthcare resources and hindering overall well-being and progress.

As we mark World No Tobacco Day in 2023, it is crucial to address this issue head-on and work towards implementing effective strategies to combat tobacco use in the country, especially in Meghalaya.

Addressing the tobacco problem in Meghalaya requires a comprehensive approach. Children are a major target for the tobacco industry. Studies show that 90% of tobacco users start from ages 10 to 22. Once addicted, the chances of giving up are less than 5% – throughout their life. Hence, the Tobacco Free Educational Institutions (ToFEI) programme, a comprehensive intervention to change youths’ behaviour towards tobacco, was implemented in the state.

Meghalaya is using a holistic approach to tobacco control and in addition to ToFEI, strict enforcement of tobacco control laws, such as the Cigarettes and Tobacco Products Act, 2003 (COTPA) which prohibits smoking in public places, regulating tobacco advertising, and preventing accessibility of tobacco products to minors is being done in close coordination with the police and district administration.

Creating smoke-free environments is a critical aspect of tobacco control. Workplaces, public spaces and educational institutions should strictly enforce smoke-free policies to protect non-smokers from second-hand smoke.

Sales of tobacco products within 100 yards of educational institutions and smoking in public places are banned and police are taking strict action against violators.

On this World No Tobacco Day, let us recognise the challenges faced by Meghalaya and renew our commitment to combatting the tobacco problem in the state. By empowering individuals, strengthening tobacco control policies, and investing in comprehensive tobacco cessation programmes, we can create a healthier and tobacco-free Meghalaya for generations to come.

(The author is SNO, National Tobacco Control Programme, National Health Mission)

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