Tobacco harm prevention and Control Vietnam's Efforts and Challenges

DNHN - Spending on tobacco can account for more than ten percent of total daily expenditures, causing household financial imbalances and limiting access to other necessities such as food.

On the morning of May 23 in Hanoi, the Ministry of Information and Communications hosted an important seminar on the dissemination of information regarding the prevention and control of tobacco-related ill effects. This event was attended by experts, researchers, and representatives of affiliated organizations. In this article, we will examine the causes and effects of tobacco use in Vietnam, as well as potential solutions to the problem.

According to Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Huong, a representative of the Tobacco Harm Prevention Fund under the Ministry of Health, approximately 8 million people die annually due to tobacco, of which approximately 1 million are tobacco victims. passive smoking. This number is alarming and demonstrates the importance of quitting tobacco use.

In addition, the World Health Organisation (WHO) estimates that tobacco causes an annual global economic loss of up to USD 1.4 trillion. Not only does tobacco use result in economic losses, but it also devastates forests and pollutes the environment. Millions of trees are cut down annually to grow and dry tobacco, contributing to the deforestation of the planet. Moreover, the emission of cigarette smoke into the environment contributes to air pollution by releasing formaldehyde, nicotine, and other toxins.

Additionally, the study revealed that tobacco use hurts the economic situation of households, particularly those with low income. Spending on tobacco can account for more than 10% of total daily expenditures, causing household financial imbalances and limiting access to other necessities such as food.

Tobacco smoke is not only harmful to human health and the environment, but it also degrades air quality and negatively impacts the safety and security of homes, workplaces, transportation systems, and public spaces. add. High smoking rates are frequently associated with poorer living conditions, especially in slums.

At the workshop, it was noted that the price of cigarettes in Vietnam is extremely low in comparison to other nations. Comparing the average price of Marlboro packs in different countries, the average price of a Marlboro pack in Vietnam is half the global average (equivalent to $2.82 versus $5.62 per pack). This makes controlling and reducing tobacco use in Vietnam extremely difficult.

To reduce tobacco use in Vietnam, Ms. Nguyen Thi Thu Huong proposed and supported an increase in tobacco tax, as well as a ban on tobacco advertising, promotion, and direct marketing to consumers. This is to restrict easy access and increase prices to reduce the appeal of cigarettes to consumers. By this viewpoint, many workshop participants advocated for stricter enforcement of the Law on the Prevention and Control of Tobacco-Related Harms by inspecting, inspecting, and prosecuting violations based on the location. prohibiting smoking, tobacco product advertising, promotion, sponsorship, and sales.

However, implementing the aforementioned solutions is not easy and requires coordination between authorities, the state, and the community. In addition, the increase in taxes and the ban on tobacco advertising must be carefully adjusted so as not to negatively impact consumers and the economy.

On the path to preventing and controlling the harmful effects of tobacco, Vietnam requires the resolve and efforts of all parties involved. Reducing tobacco use provides not only health and environmental benefits, but also economic and social advantages. To build a brighter, tobacco-free future, we must act collaboratively and develop effective measures.

Chau Giang