Despite this stark reality upon us, millions of people consumed tobacco regularly, with developing countries experiencing the brunt of the epidemic. Tobacco remains the only consumer product that kills up to half of those who use it as intended by manufacturers. Globally, it kills one person every four seconds,
It is also directly linked to the four most prevalent non-communicable diseases namely: cardiovascular disease, cancer, chronic respiratory disease and diabetes. For instance, cigarette is said to contain more than 7,000 chemicals. At least 69 of these chemicals are known to cause cancer, and many are toxic. This is indeed scary to say the least.
Being a deadly product also represents one of the greatest challenges and health burden countries are faced with of recent. Despite its serious nature, the number of new or young smokers is increasing exponentially by the day.
On Thursday, the Non-Communicable Disease Unit at the Ministry of Health embarked on a three-day inspection tour to shopping outlets in Kombo South as part of broader move to enforce the anti-tobacco control laws. The visit also availed health officials the opportunity to renew their firm stance against the sale of single sticks and displaying tobacco related products in their shops.
We cannot but commend the government of Gambia for its foresight in drafting the anti-tobacco measures in the first place. This alone speaks volume of the country’s stance in protecting its citizens from this harmful product. Protecting our younger generation from the consequences of tobacco is a collective effort that cannot be left to one sector alone.
In as much as tobacco companies continue to alter their tactics, authorities are on course in unearthing some of this false impression they continue to associate with tobacco business. The ban placed on tobacco advertisement in the country is another measure that signifies government’s commitment to this cause.
We owe it to the future generation of this country to create a better environment for all of us. Let’s always put at the back of minds that no one will come from outside to development this country. Citizens have to take the leadership role.
Therefore, we look forward to the day when the full implementation of this measure would be endorsed in order to achieve the goal of a tobacco free nation.