Every year, more than 8 million people die worldwide from tobacco use. More than 7 million of these deaths result from direct tobacco consumption, and around 1.2 million are due to exposure of non-smokers to second-hand smoke. Data from the World Health Organization (WHO) show that around 22,000 women in the African region die every year from preventable tobacco-related diseases. 

According to the Acting WHO Representative in Angola, Dr Yoti Zabulon, the tobacco threat is one of the most significant public health challenges the world has ever faced. Children, in particular, when exposed to second-hand tobacco smoke, can develop pneumonia, bronchitis, or acute respiratory infections and lose their lives. 

"As responsible people, we all have the responsibility to participate in this great challenge of protecting health and preventing the harm caused by tobacco. The good news is that people who quit smoking reduce their risk of developing lung cancer by 50% after just ten years and can contribute significantly to the health of children and the development of their countries."

Every year on May 31, WHO and global partners celebrate World No Tobacco Day to raise awareness about the negative impact of tobacco use and exposure to secondhand smoke on people's health and well-being and the need for countries to advocate for effective policies in line with the Framework Convention on Tobacco Control (FCTC).

This year's theme, "Protecting Children from Tobacco Industry Interference," focuses on advocacy to end the targeting of young people with harmful tobacco products. World No Tobacco Day 2024 will be a platform for young people around the world to call on governments to protect them from predatory tobacco marketing tactics. These industries intentionally design products and use marketing strategies that appeal directly to children. Children's flavours combined with attractive and colourful designs are a clear attempt to get young people hooked on these harmful products.

Children are using e-cigarettes at higher rates than adults in all regions, and worldwide, it is estimated that 37 million young people aged between 13 and 15 use tobacco. In the African region, 13% of adolescent girls use tobacco products.

The WHO urges governments to protect young people from the use of tobacco, e-cigarettes, and other nicotine products by banning or strictly regulating these products. The WHO also encourages all individuals, parents, children, and other members of the community to protect their health and avoid the harm caused by tobacco.  The tobacco problem is one of the greatest threats to public health. We must not let tobacco threaten the population's well-being and the country's development.  Let's all choose health, not tobacco!