Ministry calls on youths to refrain from resorting to tobacco addiction

In connection with the International Day of No for Tobacco, the Ministry of Health called on the youth to refrain from resorting to  any habit of addiction as a result of the deceiving advertisements on the part of tobacco producing companies. Asmara, 1 June 2010 –  In connection with the International Day of No for Tobacco, the Ministry of Health called on the youth to refrain from resorting to  any habit of addiction as a result of the deceiving advertisements on the part of tobacco producing companies.

The director general of regulation and control department in the Ministry, Dr. Tesfai Solomon, indicated that resorting to tobacco products is one of the main problems for public health, and that over 5 million people die annually as a result of diseases connected with tobacco consumption.  In this regard, he explained that such death rate would reach 8 million by 2030 unless urgent action is taken. 

Dr. Tesfai further pointed out that the Ministry has adopted a Proclamation No. 143/2004 prohibiting smoking at offices, educational and health institutions, as well as public transport, factories, cinemas, restaurants and other public places.

Dramas, songs and poems highlighting the dire consequences of tobacco were featured during the observances.