The World Health Organization (WHO) announced on Tuesday that the number of adult tobacco users has been steadily decreasing in recent years. However, the organization also issued a warning that the tobacco industry, commonly referred to as Big Tobacco, is actively working to reverse this positive trend.
According to the WHO, in 2022, approximately one in five adults around the world were smokers or consumed other tobacco products, compared to one in every three adults in 2000. This data indicates a significant reduction in tobacco use globally.
The WHO’s latest report, which analyzed trends in tobacco use between 2000 and 2030, revealed that 150 countries have successfully implemented measures to reduce tobacco use. This achievement is commendable and demonstrates the progress being made in combating tobacco addiction.
While smoking rates are declining in most countries, the WHO cautioned that tobacco-related deaths are expected to remain high for years to come. Shockingly, tobacco use still claims the lives of more than 8 million people annually, including an estimated 1.3 million nonsmokers who are exposed to second-hand smoke.
The report highlighted that countries implementing strong tobacco control measures can expect to wait approximately 30 years between seeing a decrease in the prevalence rate and a corresponding decline in tobacco-related deaths. This emphasizes the importance of sustained efforts in tobacco control and the need for long-term strategies.
Despite the positive strides made, the WHO expressed concern that the world is unlikely to achieve its goal of a 30-percent reduction in tobacco use between 2010 and 2025. While 56 countries are expected to meet this target, including Brazil, which has already achieved a 35-percent decrease since 2010, there are six countries where tobacco use has actually increased: the Republic of Congo, Egypt, Indonesia, Jordan, Moldova, and Oman.
The WHO’s report projected that overall, the world is on track to reduce tobacco use by a quarter over the 15-year period leading up to 2025. This progress is significant, but it is essential to remain vigilant in the face of persistent challenges.
Despite the decline in the number of smokers, the WHO stressed that there is no time for complacency. The tobacco industry continues to pose a threat, determined to roll back the advancements made in tobacco control. Ruediger Krech, director of the WHO’s health promotion department, emphasized the need for ongoing efforts to combat the tobacco industry’s influence.
As we celebrate the progress made in reducing tobacco use, it is crucial to remember that the fight against tobacco addiction is far from over. The WHO’s report serves as a reminder that sustained efforts, strong tobacco control measures, and international cooperation are vital to protect public health and save lives.
Source: The Manila Times
