Daily Times

KARACHI: Like other parts of the globe, the World No Tobacco Day will also be observed in Pakistan on 31 May 2017 to raise awareness among people about harmful implications of tobacco use.

The theme for the day is “Tobacco – a threat to development.” WHO and its partners, including Pakistan mark this day, highlighting the health and additional risks associated with tobacco use and advocating for effective policies to reduce tobacco consumption.

The observance of the day will demonstrate the threats that the tobacco industry poses to the sustainable development of all countries, including the health and economic well-being of their citizens. It will propose measures that governments and the public should take to promote health and development by confronting the global tobacco crisis.

Goals of the World No Tobacco Day 2017 campaign are following: Highlight the links between the use of tobacco products, tobacco control and sustainable development, encourage countries to include tobacco control in their national responses to 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda, support Member States and civil society to combat tobacco industry interference in political processes, in turn leading to stronger national tobacco control action.

Encourage broader public and partner participation in national, regional and global efforts to develop and implement development strategies and plans and achieve goals that prioritise action on tobacco control, demonstrate how individuals can contribute to making a sustainable, tobacco-free world, either by committing to never taking up tobacco products, or by quitting the habit.