THE No Tobacco Day today is an opportunity for tobacco users to quit a substance that kills 5.4m people every year in the world. The day is also a reminder for governments to see what they have done so far and what needs to be done to reduce deaths from tobacco-related diseases.

In Pakistan it is estimated that 100,000 people die every year as a result of smoking. Lung cancer is the number one cause of cancer deaths in males, followed by mouth cancer. Both these cancers are tobacco-related and can be prevented if this powerful addictive substance is avoided.

Tobacco use is also the major risk factor for heart attacks, stroke, pneumonia, chronic obstructive lung disease, as well as for 20 other serious diseases.

The Prohibition of Smoking and Protection of Non-Smokers Health Ordinance came in 2002 but its implementation has been very weak. Take for example the ban on smoking at public places. According to a recent survey done by us, the majority of hotels, cafes and restaurants in the country are still allowing smoking within their premises.

The main purpose of implementing smoke-free policies at public places is not just to provide protection to non-smokers from tobacco toxins. Smoke-free public places also motivate smokers to quit and help to reduce tobacco consumption in the country.

Tobacco use is also worsening Pakistan’s economy. According to an estimate, every single day over Rs800m is burnt away in cigarettes alone. Equal, if not more, money is wasted in consuming smokeless tobacco in the form of ‘paan’, ‘gutka’, ‘naswar’, etc.

The government spends a huge sum of foreign exchange to import costly medicines needed to treat diseases caused by tobacco use. Tobacco use hurts disproportionately the poor and deepens poverty by siphoning money needed for basic necessities such as food, shelter and education.Through these columns I appeal to the prime minister to take the following measures to control tobacco use in the country:

Strict enforcement of the existing anti-tobacco legislation.

Public education on tobacco hazards through the mass media.

Prohibition of all forms of tobacco advertising, promotions and sponsorships.

Strict implementation of smoking ban at all public places, including hotels, restaurants and cafes, as well as in the public transport.

Smoking should not be permitted in educational institutions/hospitals.

Taxation on all tobacco products must be increased in the forthcoming budget.

Establish smoking cessation clinics at all major hospitals of the country.

PROF JAVAID KHAN Karachi