New Delhi – On October 8, the World Health Organization (WHO) released a fresh report showing that the South‑East Asia region is the fastest mover in the world at cutting down tobacco use. The Global Report on Trends in Prevalence of Tobacco Use 2000‑2024 and Projections 2025‑2030 highlights how strong policy action is paying off, but it also warns that millions of adults and children still smoke or vape.
The WHO file states that about 322 million adults and 8.6 million adolescents in South‑East Asia continue to use tobacco. In addition, roughly 1.8 million adults and 500,000 teens are using e‑cigarettes – a number that may be far higher than the data suggest. These figures underscore the urgent need for higher taxes, tighter bans on advertising, and expanded help for people who want to quit.
Dr Catharina Boehme, Officer‑in‑Charge for WHO South‑East Asia, said the progress is “very encouraging,” yet “millions are still using tobacco and new nicotine products.” She also emphasized the importance of protecting children from picking up smoking habits. “We must accelerate actions to safeguard the next generation,” she told reporters.
According to the report, the region has already achieved the global goal of cutting tobacco use by 30 % by 2021 – four years ahead of schedule. In 2000, South‑East Asia had the world’s highest tobacco use, with 70 % of
Source: aninews
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