On November 20, World No Tobacco Day, Associate Prof. Dr. Mustafa Aydın, President of the Turkish Anti-Smoking Association (TSSD), stated that cigarette consumption and sales have increased, particularly during the pandemic.
Speaking on World No Tobacco Day, Associate Professor Dr. Mustafa Aydın, President of the Turkish Anti-Smoking Association (TSSD), emphasized that the number of smokers worldwide has exceeded one billion, reaching an all-time high. He noted that Turkey is among the top 10 countries contributing to global tobacco consumption.
Dr. Aydın also highlighted the rise in smoking-related deaths as the number of smokers continues to grow worldwide. He stated, “The age of addiction is steadily decreasing in all countries. We need to raise awareness about this danger. In addition to conducting educational campaigns for families and young people, we must implement deterrent measures against cigarette sales.” Citing World Health Organization statistics, Aydın pointed out that approximately one in three adults worldwide smokes. He also shared findings from studies in Turkey, revealing that 62.8% of men, 24.3% of women, and 43.6% of the total population over the age of 15 are smokers.
Emphasizing that two-thirds of the global smoking population is concentrated in just 10 countries, Aydın stated that Turkey ranks among the leading nations in this regard. He also drew attention to the post-pandemic increase in cigarette consumption and the expansion of retail spaces selling tobacco products. As part of its ongoing efforts, the TSSD has initiated plans to regulate tobacco sales and restrict access to cigarettes.
“Focus on How, Not Why”
Dr. Mustafa Aydın explained that the TSSD is studying the reasons behind the increase in smoking rates, emphasizing that nicotine addiction is a powerful dependency with chemical, psychological, and social dimensions. He stressed the importance of identifying the factors that lead individuals to start smoking rather than merely explaining why they should quit. “People already know the harms of smoking, yet they continue. The key is to show them the way out,” he said. He also highlighted the crucial role of psychologists in addressing addiction, advocating for pioneering research in this area.
Aydın also emphasized the need for stricter enforcement of smoking bans in enclosed areas. He advocated for harsher penalties and increased oversight, particularly through the implementation of volunteer smoking inspectors. He proposed that such inspectors should have the authority to impose fines and collaborate with law enforcement. “Otherwise, concerned citizens will continue reporting violations, but without enforcement power, voluntary inspectors will not be more effective than ordinary individuals lodging complaints.”
Ban on Electronic Cigarettes and Similar Products
Dr. Aydın also opposed the sale of electronic cigarettes and similar alternatives, stating that research has shown these products are harmful. He reaffirmed the TSSD’s commitment to leading efforts to impose stricter regulations and deterrent measures against these products.
Date: 19.11.2021
Source: www.dha.com.tr