Onset of Adolescent Smoking, Its Implications and Remedies.

Abstract

Tobacco use is an alarming preventable epidemic worldwide and has become the leading cause of death. Due to widespread bans on tobacco advertising, promotion, and awareness efforts, smoking is relatively well-controlled in most developed countries. In Finland, France, Norway, and New Zealand, smoking rates have decreased by 14–37% (Doku, 2020). However, the health burden from tobacco use is disproportionately rising in low- and middle-income countries. Out of five million tobacco-related deaths globally, 80% occur in these nations. Most second-hand smoke-related child deaths also happen in African and Asian countries. Despite these serious consequences, there is very little effort to raise awareness about the extent of the risks associated with tobacco use in the developing world. In over 40% of low-income countries, there are no national bans on cigarette advertising or sponsorship activities. (ASH Fact sheet: Tobacco and the Developing World, 2019). Pakistan is a high-burden country in tobacco use, with smoking prevalence in males at 36% to 45% and females at 2% to 9%. About 1,200 adolescents start smoking every day in Pakistan, representing a highly dangerous public health concern (https://www.dawn.com/news/1692612).