Young people lead World No Tobacco Day fight against industry targeting youth with e-cigarettes & deceptive marketing.
May 31, 2024 - Today, on World No Tobacco Day, the World Health Organization (WHO) is amplifying the voices of young people leading the fight against the tobacco industry's predatory marketing tactics.
This year's theme, "Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference," highlights the vulnerability of children to the industry's manipulative practices. The WHO reports that despite progress in reducing cigarette smoking rates, new threats emerge, with e-cigarette use among youth exceeding adult use in all regions. Alarmingly, an estimated 37 million youth aged 13-15 use some form of tobacco globally.
"The tobacco industry has a long history of targeting young people to replace customers they lose due to death or quitting," says Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General. "We must stand with young people and empower them to resist the industry's manipulation."
Youth Speak Up, Demand Action
World No Tobacco Day 2024 serves as a platform for young people worldwide to urge governments to enact stricter policies to shield them from the tobacco industry's influence. Social media and streaming platforms have become new battlegrounds, where the industry employs sophisticated marketing strategies to entice young users.
The Day calls for a multi-pronged approach:
- Strengthening regulations: Banning tobacco advertising and marketing that targets youth, including on social media and around schools.
- Raising awareness: Educating young people about the dangers of tobacco use and the industry's deceptive tactics.
- Supporting cessation: Providing resources and support to help young people who are already using tobacco products quit.
A Global Movement
The WHO is hosting a virtual event on June 3rd, featuring young leaders who will share their experiences and advocate for stronger tobacco control measures. Public health organizations worldwide are also organizing campaigns and events to raise awareness about the dangers of tobacco use and protect children from industry manipulation.
World No Tobacco Day 2024 serves as a stark reminder of the ongoing fight against tobacco use. By empowering young people and implementing effective policies, we can build a healthier future free from tobacco addiction.
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